Drug Use and Alcohol Addiction in India

Drug use and alcohol addiction has seen a growth from rural villages to busy cities. It is a major growing concern no one is talking about, especially among young people alcohol addiction has seen more in the last 5 years. Factors like unemployment, stress, peer pressure, and easy access to substances have all contributed to the problem. In many regions, drug use starts as casual experimentation but quickly turns into dependency, leading to serious health and social issues.

Alcohol addiction is also becoming increasingly common, breaking families apart and affecting mental and physical well-being. The combination of drug use and alcohol dependence has created a cycle of poverty, violence, and poor health in many communities. The Indian government, along with NGOs and local organizations, has been working to raise awareness and provide better rehabilitation facilities. Yet, lack of education, and limited access to treatment make recovery difficult for many.

Causes for Drug use and Alcohol Addiction in Youth

The rising wave of drug use and alcohol addiction among youth in India is driven by several factors that deserve our attention. A 2023 study found that 32.8% of young people surveyed had used substances, and 75.5% of them started drug use before reaching adulthood. Financial struggles and unemployment leave many young individuals feeling stuck or helpless, making the escape by alcohol. At the same time youth culture often glamorizes risky behavior, so teens may begin drug use or alcohol addiction simply to mask an underlying emotional pain.

Surroundings and atmosphere of the person also add on to the problem, youth from urban areas, lower-income families, are exposed to drugs even before they reach 18 which lead to more diseases and health concerns. The family environment also plays a critical role. Broken families, lack of communication, or parents who themselves struggle with addiction increase the risk of children falling into the same pattern. Additionally, easy access to substances such as cheap alcohol, local brews, or street drugs makes it easier for youth to experiment and get hooked.

A 2022 survey by AIIMS revealed that one in five Indian college students has used drugs at least once, and alcohol addiction is the most common form of substance dependence among youth. Unfortunately, very few seek professional help due to fear or lack of affordable rehabilitation services.

Also Read: Why Is Benzodiazepine Addiction So High in the UK & Middle East?

Current Statistics about Drug use and Alcohol Addiction in India

A national survey carried out by All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) found that about 14.6 % of India’s population aged 10-75 years, nearly 16 crore people reported consuming alcohol.

These statistics underline the growing challenge of alcohol addiction in India. States like Mumbai,Delhi, Bangalore have seen a rise in drugs and alcohol addiction in recent years. Top it all Punjab shows the highest number of youth in drug addiction, known for its hardworking youth and rich culture, Punjab is now battling widespread drug use, especially among young men. Many parts of the state report high use of heroin and synthetic drugs, often referred to locally as “chitta.” According to government reports, nearly one in three households in Punjab has at least one person struggling with drug addiction or substance abuse.

The problem began years ago due to easy access to drugs smuggled through the border and lack of employment opportunities, pushing many youth toward addiction as a way to escape stress or hopelessness. What makes the Punjab drug problem worse is the social stigma many families hide the issue instead of seeking help, which delays recovery.

However, awareness campaigns, government initiatives, and new rehab centers are working to bring change. Education, community support, and stronger law enforcement can play a big role in helping Punjab overcome this crisis and rebuild a healthier, drug-free future for its youth.

Also Read: 7 Signs of a High-Functioning Alcoholic

Government Polices for Drug use and Alcohol Addiction

The Indian government has introduced several important policies and programs to address drug use and alcohol addiction across the country. With rising numbers of people, especially youth, falling into substance abuse, the focus has shifted toward prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. The National Policy on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) aims to control the production, sale, and use of illegal drugs while promoting treatment for people struggling with drug addiction.

To tackle alcohol addiction, the government has allowed individual states to make their own liquor laws, as alcohol is a state subject in India. Some states, like Bihar and Gujarat, have banned alcohol completely, while others regulate its sale to reduce misuse.

At the same time, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment runs the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), which focuses on building awareness, funding rehab, and training social workers to support those in recovery.

The government has also partnered with NGOs and hospitals to open more rehab centers across India, making treatment more accessible. These centers provide counseling, medical detox, and therapy sessions that help individuals recover from drug use and alcohol addiction.

While the policies are strong on paper, challenges such as lack of awareness, and limited infrastructure make it hard to reach everyone in need. Still, continuous efforts are being made to educate youth, promote healthy lifestyles, and expand the network of rehabilitation centers.

Also Read: Types of Psychoactive Drugs and Their Mental Health Effects

Treatment Programmes and The Role Of NGOs

Treatment programmes for drug use and alcohol addiction have become an important part of the country’s public health efforts. The government, along with several NGOs, is working to provide better access to rehabilitation and recovery support for those struggling with substance abuse. Many NGOs run rehab for alcohol addiction and drug recovery centers that offer counseling, therapy, and community-based treatment to help individuals rebuild their lives.

These organizations play an important role in spreading awareness about how to stop drug addiction and in reducing the social stigma around seeking help. They often collaborate with local communities, schools, and health departments to conduct workshops and awareness campaigns that educate people about the dangers of substance abuse.

The government’s National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) also supports these NGOs through funding and technical help, ensuring more people can access affordable alcohol addiction treatment and drug rehab facilities. Most of these programs combine medical care with emotional and psychological support to encourage long-term recovery.

Together, these initiatives are giving people a second chance at life, helping them overcome addiction, restore family relationships, and reintegrate into society with confidence and hope for a healthier future.

Also Read: Gambling Addiction: Symptoms, Causes, and Help

Conclusion

Drug use and alcohol addiction in India remain pressing social and health challenges that demand collective action. The growing number of young people falling into addiction highlights the urgent need for stronger awareness, accessible rehabilitation, and community support. While the government and NGOs are making progress through policies and rehab for alcohol addiction programs, more effort is needed at the family and societal levels. Education, early intervention, and compassion can play a key role in helping individuals recover and build a drug-free, healthier India where every person has the opportunity to live with dignity and purpose.

Also Read: Highest Success Rate of Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is drug addiction and how does it start?

   Drug addiction is a condition where a person becomes physically or mentally dependent on drugs. It often starts with curiosity, peer pressure, or using substances to cope with stress or emotions. Over time, regular use changes brain chemistry, leading to cravings, loss of control, and difficulty stopping even when it causes harm.

2. How can someone stop drug addiction safely?

   To stop drug use safely, it’s important to seek help from a doctor, rehab center, or therapist. Medical detox, counseling, and behavioral therapy can help manage withdrawal and build healthy coping habits. Support from family and friends, along with lifestyle changes, greatly increases the chances of long-term recovery and staying drug-free.

3. Why is the Punjab drug problem getting worse?

   The Punjab drug problem is worsening due to easy access to smuggled drugs, rising unemployment, and growing stress among youth. Many turn to substances like heroin for escape or social acceptance. Weak law enforcement, political negligence, and lack of proper rehabilitation programs further fuel the crisis, making recovery and prevention harder across the state.

4. What treatment options exist for alcohol addiction and relapse?

   Alcohol addiction treatment includes medical detox, therapy, and counseling in rehab centers. Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and ongoing therapy help prevent relapse. Combining medication, psychological support, and healthy lifestyle changes gives individuals the best chance to recover fully and maintain long-term sobriety.

5. How does rehabilitation help prevent drug relapse?

   Rehabilitation helps prevent drug relapse by providing a structured environment, medical care, and emotional support. Through therapy and counseling, individuals learn to manage triggers, build coping skills, and rebuild confidence. Continued aftercare programs and community support keep them accountable, reducing the chances of returning to substance use.