Are Drugs the Most Significant Threat to Our Youth? Amit Shah's Stance on Fighting Narco-Cartels
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Amit Shah emphasizes the urgent need to combat the drug crisis affecting our youth. With a robust government approach targeting narco-cartels and a commitment to rehabilitation, India aims for a drug-free society. Key statistics and ongoing initiatives highlight the nation's efforts against substance abuse.
Key Takeaways
- Drugs are a major threat to youth.
- Government's comprehensive approach targets narco-cartels.
- Over 15.78 crore people educated on substance use.
- International Day against Drug Abuse highlights need for action.
- Legislation in place to combat drug trafficking.
New Delhi, June 26 (NationPress) Drugs pose the greatest threat to our youth, and the government is decisively targeting narco-cartels to help rehabilitate those struggling with addiction, stated Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday, coinciding with the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Every year, June 26 is observed as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to bolster actions and collaborations aimed at creating a world devoid of substance abuse.
“Drugs are the most significant threat to our youth. The Modi administration is committed to a comprehensive approach to combat this issue, aggressively targeting narco-cartels and supporting addicted individuals in their recovery with compassion,” Shah remarked in a post on the social media platform X.
Emphasizing the importance of strengthening defenses against the drug abuse crisis, he also acknowledged the “warriors and allies in our mission for a drug-free Bharat.”
This year’s theme, “Break the cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime,” underscores the necessity of coordinated, long-term efforts to disrupt organized crime and drug trafficking by addressing underlying issues, investing in prevention, and enhancing health, education, and social systems.
The government has launched nationwide awareness initiatives under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan this June 2025.
So far, over 15.78 crore individuals have been educated about substance use, including more than 5.26 crore youth and over 3.31 crore women, according to data from the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE).
“The department is reaching out to a wide array of citizens, particularly students and youth, to combat the drug menace,” said the Secretary of DoSJE on X.
Meanwhile, the World Drug Report 2025 indicated that organized drug trafficking groups are continuing to evolve, taking advantage of global crises and targeting vulnerable populations.
On a global scale, 316 million people used drugs (excluding alcohol and tobacco) in 2023, which accounts for 6 percent of the population aged 15 to 64, in contrast to 5.2 percent in 2013.
Cannabis remains the most commonly used drug with 244 million users, followed by opioids (61 million), amphetamines (30.7 million), cocaine (25 million), and ecstasy (21 million).
New groups of vulnerable individuals, fleeing hardship and instability, could potentially increase these numbers further, the report cautioned.
To tackle the global drug challenge, India has enacted stringent laws, raised significant awareness, and initiated community activities.
The country’s legislation is resolute against the global threat that ruins lives and erodes societal fabric. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, prohibits non-medical drug use and imposes graded penalties while granting immunity for those seeking treatment.
Additionally, the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Illicit Traffic) Act, 1988, allows for the preventive detention of repeat offenders. The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, governs the legal production and distribution of pharmaceuticals in India.
Point of View
It's clear that the fight against drug abuse is not merely a government initiative but a societal imperative. With alarming statistics and the rise of vulnerable populations, we must collectively support efforts to combat this scourge. The government's focus on rehabilitation and prevention is commendable, but ongoing collaboration between communities, families, and authorities is essential to create a drug-free environment for future generations.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the government's drug policy?
The government's drug policy primarily focuses on combating narco-cartels, rehabilitating addicted youth, and raising awareness about drug abuse through initiatives like the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
How many people have been educated about substance use?
Over 15.78 crore individuals have been educated about substance use, with a significant focus on youth and women.
What are the main drugs used in India?
Cannabis is the most widely used drug in India, followed by opioids, amphetamines, cocaine, and ecstasy.
What laws are in place to combat drug trafficking?
India has established the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, which prohibits non-medical drug use, and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Illicit Traffic) Act, 1988, which allows for the preventive detention of repeat traffickers.
What is the significance of the International Day against Drug Abuse?
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed to promote global action and cooperation aimed at achieving a drug-free world.
