Drug Abuse in India: Madhya Pradesh Takes Sixth Spot in National Rankings for 2024

Madhya Pradesh (MP) finds itself grappling with an escalating drug abuse problem, ranking sixth nationwide, as revealed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. From January to September 2024, the state registered 2,809 drug-related cases, underscoring the magnitude of the crisis.

MP’s statistics highlight a worrying trend: since 2021, the state has averaged 13 drug-related cases and 14 arrests daily.

Cannabis remains the most widely abused drug in the country, followed by opioids, sedatives, inhalants, and other substances.

Mounting Cases and Seizures in MP

Between January 2019 and April 2024, MP registered 20,257 cases under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, with marijuana topping the list at 14,500 cases. The state also recorded 1,969 cases involving smack, 410 related to opium, and 1,200 linked to poppy husk during this period. In total, authorities seized over 11 lakh kilograms of contraband—averaging 600 kilograms daily.

In the same period, 25,430 individuals were arrested for drug-related offenses. The state also invoked the Prevention of Illicit Trafficking and NDPS Act against 50 accused and froze assets worth ₹54.14 crore under anti-smuggling laws.

Awareness Campaigns Making a Difference

To counteract the growing issue, MP Police have undertaken significant awareness campaigns. From 2019 to April 2024, a total of 27,027 de-addiction programs were conducted, benefiting over 23 lakh citizens, including students. Campaigns featured rallies, debates, poster exhibitions, and street plays to educate the public on the dangers of substance abuse.

Social welfare organizations, public representatives, and prominent citizens joined hands with law enforcement to amplify the message. Efforts focused on schools and colleges, aiming to shield younger generations from falling into addiction.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Dr. Sreelekshmi P/MSM)