In many homes today, laughter has been replaced by silence, not because of conflict or poverty, but because of drug addiction. Drug addiction has quietly taken over a loved one’s life. Drug abuse means taking harmful substances or using them excessively, such as alcohol, heroin, cannabis, or even prescription drugs. It affects not only mental health but also the body and leads to dependency.

Drug peddlers often prey on young people who are facing problems like unemployment, isolation, or family issues. Initially, they approach them in a friendly and trustworthy manner, often by offering drugs for free or at a very low cost, creating a false sense of control and curiosity. Once a person starts taking drugs out of curiosity, they gradually become dependent. The same individuals who once offered drugs for free then increase the price or pressure the user to continue. In many cases, they manipulate youth into recruiting others, trapping them in a cycle that is difficult to escape.
Across India, drug abuse has become a serious crisis that is expanding day by day. According to the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India, millions of people are affected by substance abuse. Government data further shows that over 31,000 people received de-addiction treatment in 2023–2024 alone.
If we talk about our Union Territory, Jammu and Kashmir, the situation is alarming. Official estimates presented in Parliament suggest that around 13.5 lakh (1.35 million) people are involved in drug abuse, with a large proportion dependent on opioids. This means nearly 8% of the population is affected. Recent data also indicates that over 32,000 patients have been registered in treatment facilities since 2022.
The situation is even worse in the Kashmir Valley. Studies estimate that around 70,000 people in the Valley are involved in substance use, with over 52,000 dependent on opioids or heroin. About 90% of drug users fall within the young age group of 17 to 35 years. Health institutions report around 150 new cases every day. At the district level, areas such as Budgam and Anantnag are among the affected regions, with increasing cases being reported.
Drug abuse does not only destroy mental health or the body; it destroys a person’s entire life. A person addicted to drugs can face physical problems like weakness, weight loss, organ damage, and diseases such as Hepatitis C. It also leads to mental problems like depression, anxiety, loss of focus, irritability, and aggressive behavior. It affects daily life as well—studies suffer, careers get destroyed, and people lose their goals and motivation. Due to financial pressure, some individuals may also get involved in criminal activities.
Drug abuse is not only an individual problem; it is a social problem. We need to bring awareness among youth who are not yet involved, and for those who are already affected, families should be guided towards rehabilitation and support. The government is doing its part, but it is also our responsibility as a society to protect our youth. The future of our generation is in our hands. Now is the time to act before it is too late.