Raju Mendez
Drug addiction among the general population is currently at unprecedented levels, particularly among youth who are in a critical phase of experimentation and identity formation as they prepare to integrate into society. Many are drawn to drugs such as heroin, opium, alcohol, cannabis, and propoxyphene, often as a means to cope with the stresses of daily life, including abuse and poverty.
Children and adolescents affected by substance abuse are considered vulnerable under the Juvenile Justice Act of 2015. The incidence of drug abuse in this demographic far exceeds that of the general population. Youthful experimentation and identity crises contribute significantly to this issue.
Developed countries frequently struggle with youth drug abuse, which is often associated with specific subcultures and lifestyles. These subcultures can perpetuate drug use as a way to fulfill immediate desires and cope with societal pressures.
It is alarming that accurate statistics on drug abuse are difficult to obtain. Cannabis and amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) are commonly used among children and youth. Various studies in different regions, such as a 1996 study in China and a school survey in 1999 in Vientiane, have documented high rates of drug use among young people.
Overall, the prevalence of drug addiction among youth poses significant challenges globally, requiring comprehensive strategies to address its complex root causes and provide effective support and prevention measures.
Youth, being the vibrant assets of any society, possess immense potential during their formative years. Properly guided, they can become pillars of nation-building. However, in India, there is a troubling inclination among some youth towards anti-national activities, including drug peddling. This trend is reflected in the increasing number of youth arrests, painting a grim picture for the nation’s future.
Recent surveys by NGOs highlight disturbing statistics. A significant portion of those seeking treatment for drug addiction are below 15 years old, with a notable percentage below 20 years old. The substances most commonly abused by these youth include heroin, opium, alcohol, cannabis, and propoxyphene.
Additionally, a concerning practice among youth involves injecting a cocktail of drugs and sharing needles, which significantly increases their risk of HIV infection. This emerging trend underscores the urgent need for intervention and support.
Overall, while youth represent the promise of the future, the prevalence of drug abuse and related criminal activities among them in India demands immediate attention and concerted efforts to safeguard their potential and ensure a healthier future for the nation.
In India, one of the major concerns is the lack of sufficient sensitization programs about drug abuse in schools and communities, both for enrolled students and those out of school. This gap in education and awareness contributes to the widespread prevalence of substance abuse. Furthermore, there is a significant incidence of children being charged under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985.
Compounding this issue is the accessibility of volatile substances such as cough syrups, pain relief ointments, glue, paint, gasoline, and cleaning fluids. These substances serve as alternatives to more traditional drugs and are easily obtained, exacerbating the problem.
Government resources dedicated to addressing child substance abuse, especially in rural areas, are scarce. This lack of support infrastructure further complicates efforts to mitigate the impact of substance abuse on young people.
Another distressing trend is the high prevalence of tobacco use among children in India. Approximately 20 million children annually and nearly 55,000 children daily become addicted to tobacco. This figure is significantly higher than the rate of new child smokers in the United States.
Street children, working children, and trafficked children are particularly vulnerable to drug abuse, including substances like whitener, alcohol, and both hard and soft drugs. Despite the prevalence of these issues, reliable data on drug abuse among children remains limited.
A study conducted by Childline in Manipur in 2008 highlighted the widespread acceptance and prevalence of drug use among children, ranging from heroin to common drugs like Spasmo Proxyvon. The use of intravenous drugs is notably risky due to the sharing of needles, leading to a heightened incidence of HIV/AIDS among this demographic.
Ultimately, children who lack love, affection, and proper care are more susceptible to falling prey to substance abuse. Addressing these multifaceted issues requires comprehensive strategies that include education, community engagement, improved healthcare services, and policy interventions aimed at protecting and supporting vulnerable youth across India.
