Arunachal Pradesh Faces Alarming Substance Abuse Crisis: Urgent Measures Initiated

Arunachal Pradesh ranks among the top four states in India for substance abuse across all categories, alarming officials. Health Minister Biyuram Wahge highlighted the deep-rooted cultural connection to substances like opium. Urgent measures, including a new policy and rehabilitation centers, have been implemented to combat the crisis.

Arunachal Pradesh ranks among the top four states in India for substance abuse across all categories, the assembly was informed on Tuesday.

Health & Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge, responding to a question by senior BJP member Wanglin Lowangdong, pointed to an 'alarming' survey of substance use patterns in the state.

The survey highlighted that eight categories of psychoactive substances are widely consumed, placing the northeastern state in a critical position.

Historically, opium cultivation and consumption have been integrated into the socio-economic and cultural lives of several tribes, particularly in eastern Arunachal Pradesh.

A report by the Central Narcotics Control Bureau warns of large-scale poppy cultivation, urging immediate intervention due to potential national security and health risks.

The unchecked spread of addiction among the youth could endanger entire communities, the report noted.

In response, the state cabinet approved a policy in 2021 aimed at eradicating psychoactive substance use, emphasizing primary prevention programs and regulated guidelines.

The government launched the Arunachal Pradesh Drug De-Addiction Society under the Chief Minister's Mukhya Mantri Nasha Mukhti Abhiyan and opened several rehabilitation centers.

Seven district hospitals have been designated for addiction treatment facilities, with plans for opium substitution therapy across 14 districts.

(With inputs from agencies.)