Over 32,000 Sought De-Addiction Treatment in J&K Since 2022 Srinagar Highest at 6,100
Government tells Assembly over 32,500 patients enrolled under anti-drug initiatives; treatment facilities expanded across UT.
JAMMU, Feb 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Government informed the Legislative Assembly that more than 32,000 people have sought de-addiction treatment in J&K since 2022, reflecting the scale of substance abuse concerns in the Union Territory.
According to the Health and Medical Education Department, a total of 32,517 patients have been registered for treatment 16,759 from the Kashmir division and 15,758 from the Jammu division.
In Kashmir, Srinagar topped the list with 6,100 cases, followed by Anantnag, Kulgam, Baramulla, Pulwama and Budgam. Other districts reporting cases include Bandipora, Shopian, Kupwara and Ganderbal.
In Jammu division, Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu recorded the highest registrations at 9,806 cases. It was followed by GMC Kathua, GMC Rajouri, Udhampur, Ramban, Doda, Poonch, Kishtwar, Samba and Reasi.
The government said de-addiction services are being strengthened under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs) are operational in all districts of Kashmir and nine districts of Jammu, offering both outpatient and inpatient services. IPD care is available at all Government Medical Colleges with psychiatrists deployed for specialised treatment.
While no new standalone centres are planned for Pulwama and Samba, existing facilities in Tral and District Hospital Samba are catering to patients in those areas. Authorities are also conducting awareness campaigns, community outreach drives and Panchayat level monitoring to identify vulnerable youth and connect them with rehabilitation services.
