Welcome to the Drug Abuse Survey

The decision of the Jammu and Kashmir government to conduct a structured survey on substance use disorders across selected districts reflects a thoughtful move towards evidence-based public health planning. For many years, discussions around drug abuse have often relied on scattered reports and individual accounts. A carefully designed multi-district survey can offer clearer insights into patterns of addiction, vulnerable age groups, and underlying social and economic factors. Such reliable information is essential for shaping focused interventions instead of depending on general assumptions.

Substance abuse in Jammu and Kashmir is not simply a matter of law enforcement. It is a public health concern that touches families, communities, and the social fabric at large. By participating in a national-level assessment exercise, the Union Territory is positioning itself better to understand the true scale and nature of the problem. Accurate mapping of prevalence and trends will help policymakers distribute resources more effectively, strengthen treatment facilities, and evaluate progress with greater confidence. In regions where social pressures and uncertainty may intensify vulnerability, this kind of systematic assessment becomes even more meaningful. Alongside data collection, the emphasis on community-based rehabilitation reflects a compassionate and grounded approach. Initiatives such as the Circle of Care programme, which trains counselors from health, education, and related sectors to work at the village level, recognize that early intervention must begin close to home. Addiction often intersects with emotional distress, unemployment, and social isolation. By placing trained counsellors within communities, the administration is attempting to create a supportive environment where individuals can seek help without fear or stigma. This grassroots engagement can play a crucial role in prevention and early guidance. The presence of functional addiction treatment facilities across districts is another positive step. Ensuring at least one centre in each district signals institutional commitment. Yet the true impact of these facilities depends on how well they are integrated into the broader healthcare system. When primary health centers are equipped to identify and manage addiction-related issues, access becomes easier, and stigma gradually reduces. Plans to expand inpatient services and establish long-term rehabilitation centres show an understanding that recovery is a gradual process. Ongoing counselling, family support, and structured follow-up are essential to help individuals sustain recovery and rebuild their lives. The government’s efforts to strengthen the legislative framework add further depth to this strategy. The finalization of drug de-addiction rules and the proposal to introduce a dedicated bill indicate a desire to provide clarity and accountability in addressing the menace. While laws alone cannot eliminate substance abuse, they can improve coordination among departments, ensure consistent enforcement, and reinforce the seriousness of the issue in the public domain. An encouraging aspect of the current approach is its broader public health orientation. The strengthening of inspection systems and regulatory oversight in other sectors, including food safety, suggests a governance model that values preventive action and community well-being. Though these areas differ in scope, they share a common commitment to protecting public health through proactive measures. Ultimately, the effectiveness of this initiative will depend on sustained political will and community participation. Surveys should not remain confined to reports and files. Their findings must inform policies, guide budgets, and set measurable goals. Counselors working at the grassroots require ongoing training and institutional support. Partnerships with civil society, educators, and local leaders can further extend the reach of preventive efforts.

Drug abuse is a complex social issue that cannot be addressed through isolated actions. It demands a comprehensive public health response that combines research, treatment, rehabilitation, and awareness. By investing in survey-driven interventions, strengthening institutional infrastructure, and promoting grassroots engagement, Jammu and Kashmir has the opportunity to build a resilient health system capable of confronting addiction challenges with sensitivity and resolve. The path ahead requires persistence, transparency, and compassion, but a structured and inclusive approach can gradually restore hope and safeguard the well-being of future generations.