Kashmir’s Lost Generation? Student Drug Crisis Sparks Fears for Future

Srinagar, Aug 13: Kashmir is facing a growing crisis as drug addiction among school and college students reaches alarming levels, prompting authorities and experts to call for immediate and collective action. The situation has become so dire that it’s now considered a major challenge for the region, threatening the future of its youth.
Recent surveys and expert opinions indicate that students in Kashmir have become increasingly vulnerable to substance abuse. This troubling trend has led to widespread demands for a multi-faceted approach to combat the issue, including the implementation of drug abuse awareness in school curricula.

The Jammu and Kashmir government’s approved drug policy assigns crucial roles to both the School Education Department (SED) and Higher Education Department (HED) in addressing this crisis. The policy recommends incorporating “drug abuse and its ill effects” into the school curriculum and utilizing trained counselors to guide students on substance use issues. Additionally, the policy suggests creating and screening documentaries as part of an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) strategy against drug abuse in all schools.
For higher education institutions, the policy advocates for sustained awareness campaigns at the grassroots level through seminars, debates, and symposia. It also proposes a “Training the Trainers” (ToT) program to equip teachers with the necessary skills to educate their peers and students about drug abuse.
An official from the SED highlighted the alarming increase in drug addiction among students, noting that many are skipping classes to engage in substance abuse in public spaces. The official emphasized the need for functional counseling cells in educational institutions and regular monitoring of student attendance and movement during school hours.
The rising indiscipline among youth, including dangerous motorcycle stunts and loitering in parks during school hours, has been linked to the increase in drug addiction. Traffic police in Srinagar and other districts have reported numerous incidents involving students, raising concerns about the broader impact of substance abuse on youth behavior.
Experts suggest that open communication between parents and children, along with early intervention, is crucial in preventing drug addiction. They stress the importance of a collaborative effort involving parents, teachers, and other stakeholders to effectively combat this menace.
In response to the crisis, the Jammu and Kashmir Police and various NGOs have organized awareness programs in schools and colleges. However, experts argue that a more sustained and comprehensive campaign is necessary to address the root causes of drug addiction among students.
As Kashmir continues to grapple with this escalating problem, the implementation of the government’s drug policy and the collective efforts of the community will be critical in safeguarding the future of the region’s youth. The coming months will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of these measures and the ability of Kashmir’s society to protect its most vulnerable members from the scourge of drug addiction.