5th Nov 2017 10:11:PM Editorials
Eastern Sentinel Arunachal News

Many districts especially Arunachal’s easternmost districts located near the porous international border and proximity to the golden triangle have fallen prey to drug menace. And its users are in the productive age group of 18-35 years; the loss in terms of human potential and societal ramifications is huge. 

In recent time there has been an escalation in drug use especially among the youths and so has been the movement to curb this menace. Conscientious citizens and law enforcers apart from launching several campaigns have exhausted almost all tricks up their sleeves to contain the problem.

Much has been said about the gnawing drug addiction problem in the state. And the comparatively little action that has been done seems to be flawed. Most drug-control programmes focus on restricting the supply of illicit drugs. This is not enough. The focus has to shift to demand reduction by preventing addiction and providing more treatment facilities for addicts.

Not just here in the state but even at the national level, there is no data to quantify the shortage of treatment facilities, but the gap is huge. Given the epidemic proportion of drug addiction, we need de-addiction centres in every nook and cranny of the country. The shortage of clinical psychologists and counsellors on ground also makes the recovery process that much harder.

However, with a little training, doctors from district hospitals and community health centres can provide basic treatment and drugs, with specialised cases referred to higher centres. This is where the state government must focus.

The need of the hour is for understanding the emotional requirements of the youngsters incorporating guidance and counselling. Steps must be taken not only to address drug-users and vulnerable groups but equal emphasis must be given for the proper rehabilitation of de-addicts so that they can make a comeback to mainstream society and lead fulfilling lives.


Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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