Punjab is a state with great potential but its development has been held back due to several socio-political and economic problems that the people have been suffering. In the 80s, it was the Khalistan movement that stifled development in the state but ever since that problem died down, abuse of alcohol and drugs has spread all over the state, afflicting men and women belonging to all social segments and age groups.
The menace of illegal drug abuse is particularly worrying as this has emerged as a serious problem amongst both, the urban and rural youth. Earlier, popular tourist destinations like Kullu-Manali and Goa were seen as major destinations for drug availability and consumption but Punjab has now overtaken these places to emerge as one of the largest illegal drug consuming state.
Tarn Taran district has the highest number of reported drug users in rural areas, while Amritsar is highest among urban areas of Punjab. Over 75% of drug abusers in border areas belong to the 15-25 year age group while the rest belong to the 35-60 years.
Over the years, the drug mafia has expanded its influence and has patronage from certain sections of politicians, police and bureaucrats, all of whom are collaborating for a share of the highly profitable business.
Trading in illicit drugs has become deeply entrenched where young school boys, some as young as twelve, are dealing in drugs. Everyone along the supply chain profits from the trade, except the government which does not earn anything as more people become addicted to drug abuse. Illegal drugs available include heroin, opium, cocaine, marijuana, hashish, ganja, and methamphetamines.
Punjab is a state with great potential but its development has been held back due to several socio-political and economic problems that the people have been suffering. In the 80s, it was the Khalistan movement that stifled development in the state but ever since that problem died down, abuse of alcohol and drugs has spread all over the state, afflicting men and women belonging to all social segments and age groups.
The menace of illegal drug abuse is particularly worrying as this has emerged as a serious problem amongst both, the urban and rural youth. Earlier, popular tourist destinations like Kullu-Manali and Goa were seen as major destinations for drug availability and consumption but Punjab has now overtaken these places to emerge as one of the largest illegal drug consuming state.
Tarn Taran district has the highest number of reported drug users in rural areas, while Amritsar is highest among urban areas of Punjab. Over 75% of drug abusers in border areas belong to the 15-25 year age group while the rest belong to the 35-60 years.
Over the years, the drug mafia has expanded its influence and has patronage from certain sections of politicians, police and bureaucrats, all of whom are collaborating for a share of the highly profitable business.
Trading in illicit drugs has become deeply entrenched where young school boys, some as young as twelve, are dealing in drugs. Everyone along the supply chain profits from the trade, except the government which does not earn anything as more people become addicted to drug abuse. Illegal drugs available include heroin, opium, cocaine, marijuana, hashish, ganja, and methamphetamines.
