Kashi Statement for Substance-Free India

Kashi Statement

The Kashi Declaration confirms a national agreement to view substance abuse as a complex public health and societal issue, urging a comprehensive approach that involves the entire government and society.

It highlights the combination of spiritual, cultural, educational, and technological initiatives to avert addiction, aid recovery, and promote a nationwide culture of sobriety.

It suggests institutional systems for coordination among multiple ministries, such as establishing a Joint National Committee, annual progress updates, and a national platform to connect impacted individuals with support services.

Threat of Substance Abuse in India

A 2019 report from AIIMS and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment indicates that;

More than 16 crore Indians use alcohol, with 5.7 crore needing medical assistance.

Over 2.3 crore individuals consume cannabis and opioids.

Approximately 1.08% of Indians aged 10 to 75 (around 1.18 crore individuals) utilize sedatives for non-medical, non-prescription purposes.

Inhalants pose a worry, especially for children and teens, showing a greater usage rate (1.17%) than for adults (0.58%).

Causes of drug issues in India

Geographical location: India is situated near the Golden Crescent and Golden Triangle, significant global areas for drug production.

Simple cross-border trafficking in areas such as Punjab, Manipur, and Assam facilitates drug entry.

Youth susceptibility: Peer influence, anxiety, joblessness, and curiosity render young people prone to substance abuse.

Insufficient enforcement: Poor monitoring, graft, and overwhelmed departments obstruct efficient regulation.

Easy access: Online marketplaces, local vendors, and pharmacies enhance drug availability.

Social fragmentation: Disrupted families, loneliness, and absence of community aid elevate addiction risks.

Effects of Substance Misuse

Economic Effects: Substance misuse diminishes productivity, raises healthcare expenses, and undermines human resources.

Health Consequences: It triggers mental illnesses, promotes the transmission of HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, and results in physical decline.

Social Effect: It breaks apart families, incites domestic violence, and leads to social alienation and shame.

Measures Implemented

Indian Initiatives:

Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act): It forbids the manufacturing, holding, trading, and use of illegal drugs while outlining consequences for breaches.

Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan: Initiated in 2020, this initiative seeks to raise awareness regarding the harmful impacts of substance misuse and encourage a drug-free India.

Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF): Numerous states have created ANTFs to enhance the enforcement of drug laws at the state level.

The DarkNet Monitoring Cell of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) monitors online drug transactions.

Worldwide Endeavors:

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC): The UNODC leads the international battle against illegal drugs. The campaign led by UNODC seeks to increase awareness regarding the risks associated with drug abuse.

International Narcotics Control Board (INCB): The INCB oversees the worldwide drug scenario and evaluates nations' adherence to international drug control agreements.

Final thoughts

The increasing drug crisis in India presents a serious danger to public health, societal welfare, and national security.

Achieving lasting success will necessitate collaborative actions among government, civil society, and communities, focusing heavily on prevention, rehabilitation, and empowering youth to create a genuinely Nasha Mukt Bharat.