Protect J&K youth

The fresh statement issued by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha about “deliberate and sinister efforts” to push the youth of Jammu and Kashmir into drug addiction is both alarming and timely, underscoring a growing crisis that extends beyond public health into the realms of security, social stability and the future of an entire generation. Drug abuse in J&K is no longer an isolated issue, but increasingly linked to organized smuggling networks and narco-terrorism. The targeting of youth, in particular, suggests a calculated attempt to weaken the social fabric and derail the region’s progress. Easy availability of narcotics, coupled with unemployment, stress, and lack of awareness, has made young people especially vulnerable. The Lieutenant Governor’s call for a “whole-of-government approach” is crucial. Tackling this menace requires more than sporadic crackdowns. Stringent law enforcement must be complemented by strong intelligence coordination to dismantle supply chains. Similarly, preventive strategies like awareness campaigns, community engagement and school-level interventions that educate young minds about the dangers of substance abuse are equally pivotal at this juncture. Rehabilitation must form the backbone of this response. Those already trapped in addiction need accessible, stigma-free treatment and support systems to reintegrate into society. Families and communities, too, must be empowered to identify early signs and intervene effectively. However, the responsibility does not lie with the government alone. Civil society, religious leaders, educators, and media must collectively foster an environment that discourages drug use and promotes healthy alternatives. Jammu and Kashmir stands at a critical juncture. Protecting its youth from the scourge of drugs is a moral imperative. A sustained, coordinated, and compassionate approach can ensure that this sinister threat is defeated before it claims more lives and futures.