Substance abuse among Naga youths is assuming epidemic proportions. Reports of drug peddlers and users being arrested are pouring in from every corner of Nagaland. This is a very serious problem that needs immediate attention. The Nagaland Police is doing a fine job on its ‘war on drugs’ campaign but it would be futile to leave the matter to the police alone. Unless the community participates in the campaign and collaborates with the authorities, the drug menace will not abate on its own and so many of our youngsters will fall into the trap, leaving our society in a perilous situation in the very near future.
Tackling the drug menace requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach involving various stakeholders in the community. There are already many resources available on how to tackle this problem. However, we as a community must first realize and admit that the drug epidemic exists in our society. Pretending that all is well is not going to save our children and youths from this epidemic. Concerned individuals and organizations must educate our community members about the dangers of drugs, their impact on individuals and society, and the signs of drug abuse. Schools, institutions, parents, and community organizations as well as the church must work together to provide accurate information and prevention programs.
Implementing preventive measures such as after-school activities, sports programs, mentorship programs, and community activities that provide safe and constructive alternatives to drug use must be encouraged. These programs can help engage and empower individuals, especially young people, to make healthy choices. We must collaborate with law enforcement agencies to enhance their efforts in combating illicit drug trafficking. Community members must report suspicious activities and work closely with local authorities to address drug-related issues effectively. In places like Mokokchung, there is no access to quality treatment and rehabilitation programs for individuals struggling with drug addiction. Efforts must be made to increase the availability of counseling, therapy, and support groups, ensuring that those affected have the necessary resources to recover and reintegrate into society.
We must prioritize prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation over punitive measures and encourage initiatives that focus on harm reduction, drug education, and reducing the stigma associated with addiction. What happened in Wokha the other day is a case in point. They must have their own reasons but stigmatization and punishment is not the way forward in building a drug-free society. Addressing the underlying issues that contribute to drug abuse, such as poverty, unemployment, lack of education, peer pressure and mental health challenges are the root causes. We must, therefore, propagate investment in social and economic development programs that provide opportunities for individuals to improve their lives and reduce the vulnerability to drug abuse. Tackling the drug menace is a long-term endeavor that requires sustained commitment from the community. With the involvement of the entire community, it is possible to make significant progress in addressing the drug menace and creating a healthier and safer environment for everyone.