Rayees Masroor
(Rayees Masroor is an educationist and columnist based in North Kashmir. He writes extensively on educational, social, and youth-related issues. He can be reached at rayeesmasroor111@gmail.com.)
The greatest wealth of a nation is its youth, and addiction steals that wealth silently. Drug addiction today stands as one of the most serious social challenges confronting Jammu and Kashmir. In a region known for its rich intellectual legacy, cultural depth, and exceptionally talented youth, the growing menace of substance abuse presents a deeply worrying contradiction.
The youth of the Valley, often described as its greatest strength and future, possess immense potential. Yet, a significant section is being drawn into the dark cycle of drug and substance abuse. This alarming trend is not merely a public health concern but a multidimensional threat. It undermines families, weakens the social fabric, and carries serious implications for security. The emerging links between drug trafficking and narco-terrorism have further intensified the gravity of the situation, making it not just a societal issue but a strategic challenge as well.
Recent estimates suggest that nearly 13.5 lakh people in Jammu and Kashmir are affected by substance abuse — roughly one in every ten individuals. This is not merely a statistic; it reflects a widespread crisis penetrating homes, communities, and institutions.
Focusing specifically on the Kashmir Valley, the situation is equally concerning. Studies indicate that around 52,000 individuals are dependent on opioids, many of them young, with a large proportion using injectable drugs. Another government-linked survey places the number of substance users in the Valley at nearly 70,000, with around 50,000 reportedly addicted to heroin alone.
What makes the situation even more dangerous is the changing pattern of drug use. Experts have observed a shift from relatively less harmful substances to highly addictive drugs like heroin, often consumed intravenously. In fact, some reports suggest that nearly 90–95 percent of drug users in Kashmir are addicted to heroin, making it the dominant substance of abuse.
Healthcare institutions are already under tremendous pressure. At de-addiction centres such as IMHANS Srinagar, doctors report five to ten new cases daily, alongside a large number of follow-up patients. Earlier trends also showed a massive rise in patients — from a few hundred to over 13,000 cases within a span of a few years — indicating how rapidly the crisis has escalated.
Data and observations from institutions like the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), Srinagar, highlight the increasing number of individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorders. Similarly, figures reported by the Narco Coordination Centre India point toward a growing trend that calls for urgent and sustained intervention. These indicators collectively reveal a reality that can no longer be ignored.
In this challenging context, the leadership of the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, has brought renewed focus and momentum to the fight against drug abuse. Through a series of proactive measures and coordinated strategies, the administration has demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing this pressing issue.
A particularly noteworthy initiative has been the implementation of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA). In Jammu and Kashmir, this national mission has gained remarkable traction. The recently conducted 100-day intensive campaign under NMBA created widespread awareness and engagement across districts. It mobilized stakeholders from all sections of society, including educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, civil society groups, and community leaders.
What sets this effort apart is the collective participation it has inspired. From grassroots activism to institutional collaboration, the campaign has generated a sense of shared responsibility. The message against drug abuse is no longer confined to official platforms; it is now echoing in classrooms, public spaces, and households alike.
In light of these impactful efforts, Care Foundation and Charitable Trust, led by Dr. Mehjabeen Nabi, expresses deep appreciation and wholehearted support for the initiatives undertaken by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor. As a gesture of recognition and encouragement, the Trust proposes to confer a citation upon him, acknowledging his leadership and commitment in combating the menace of drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir.
Such recognition is not merely ceremonial. It serves as a reaffirmation of society’s collective resolve to stand against this crisis and to support those who lead from the front. The fight against drug addiction requires sustained effort, empathy, and coordination, and it is through such determined leadership that meaningful change becomes possible.
The road ahead remains challenging, but with continued vigilance, community participation, and strong governance, there is hope that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir can be guided back toward a path of purpose, dignity, and opportunity.
