A New Push Against Drug Abuse in India
Recently, the government reported that nearly 250 million Indians have been educated about drug abuse through the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) program. Launched in 2020 by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, NMBA aims to tackle drug addiction, especially in the country’s most vulnerable districts.
Now, this initiative has expanded to all districts, according to Union Minister B.L. Verma. The goal is to raise awareness about substance use among students, particularly in colleges and schools. So far, over 84 million young people and 60 million women have participated in various activities promoting this message.
More than 1.2 million educational institutions have contributed to spreading awareness. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment plays a key role in drug demand reduction through the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR). This program offers financial aid to states, NGOs, and hospitals to create facilities for addiction treatment.
Under the NAPDDR, there are now 349 Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts and 76 outreach centers. Additionally, a toll-free helpline—14446—has been set up for immediate assistance. Verma noted that over 430,000 calls have been made to this service, a sign of increased awareness and willingness to seek help.
The urgency of addressing drug abuse couldn’t be clearer. Recent statistics show that more than 14% of Indian youth have reported using drugs at least once. This rising trend highlights the need for ongoing and effective interventions.
Experts emphasize that community involvement is crucial. Research indicates that peer-led programs can be particularly effective. Programs that engage youth directly, making them part of the solution, have shown higher success rates.
As discussions around drug abuse evolve, social media trends reveal a growing concern among the younger population. Many are actively using platforms to share their stories and advocate for addiction awareness, fostering an environment of support and understanding.
In summary, while substantial efforts are being made against drug abuse in India, the path ahead requires continued commitment, community collaboration, and support. By fostering awareness and encouraging open dialogue, we can work towards a healthier future free from the chains of addiction.
For more information on substance abuse prevention, visit the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
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Nasha Mukt Bharat, Abhiyaan, sensitised, nearly 25 cr, people on, drug abuse: Govt
