National Survey Reveals Alarming Drug Addiction Trends Across Age Groups in India

In a comprehensive effort to understand the extent and patterns of substance use in India, the Ministry conducted the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in 2018, focusing on age groups 10-17 years and 18-75 years. The survey, carried out by the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) at AIIMS, sheds light on the prevalence and estimated numbers of individuals currently using various psychoactive substances.

Here is a breakdown of the survey’s findings:

• Alcohol: Among children and adolescents (10-17 years), 1.30% are users (approximately 30,00,000), while adults (18-75 years) show a prevalence of 17.10% (approximately 15,10,00,000).
• Cannabis: 0.90% of children and adolescents (20,00,000) and 3.30% of adults (approximately 2,90,00,000) are users.
• Opioids: 1.80% of children and adolescents (40,00,000) and 2.10% of adults (approximately 1,90,00,000) are users.
• Sedatives, Inhalants, Cocaine, ATS, Hallucinogens: The survey provides prevalence rates and estimated numbers for these substances across both age groups.

The survey also offers a state-wise breakdown of substance-wise and the number of drug users in the country.

Notably, the survey conducted in 2018 is the most recent, with no data available for the last five years. To combat the rising issue of substance abuse, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is actively implementing the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR).

Under NAPDDR, significant steps have been taken:

• The launch of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) in vulnerable districts, extending its reach nationwide.
• Support for 342 Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts (IRCAs) focusing on treatment, education, awareness, counselling, and reintegration.
• 47 Community-based Peer-led Intervention (CPLI) Centres targeting at-risk children and adolescents.
• 74 Outreach and Drop-In Centres (ODICs) providing safe spaces for treatment and rehabilitation.
• Establishment of 66 Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs) in government hospitals.
• Operation of a toll-free helpline (14446) for de-addiction counseling and immediate referrals.
• Setting up 45 District De-Addiction Centres (DDACs) in districts without existing support centers.

Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment A. Narayanaswamy shared this crucial information in response to a question in Rajya Sabha today, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by drug addiction in the country.