Breaking the chains of addiction: A rallying cry to reclaim the beauty of Kashmir ?
Kashmir, the land of pristine beauty and rich cultural heritage, is facing a grave threat - the scourge of drug addiction. As a fervent Kashmiri, it pains me to see our youth falling prey to this menace. But we must not lose hope. Together, we can break the chains of addiction and reclaim the beauty of our land. It is heart-wrenching to hear stories of drug addiction leading to such tragic outcomes.
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It is a stark reminder of the destructive power of addiction and the urgent need to address this problem. Every life lost to drug abuse is a precious loss to our society. It's not just the victim of addiction who suffers, but their loved ones, friends, and the entire community. We cannot afford to let this continue. The problem of drug abuse in Kashmir is multifaceted and labyrinthine. Poverty, unemployment, and social upheaval have made our youth vulnerable to the temptation of drugs, while the easy availability of narcotics has only worsened the situation. Drug peddlers and suppliers often target vulnerable groups, including those who are unemployed, socially marginalized, and adolescents, and entice them into addiction by offering free drugs. Once these individuals become dependent, they are then charged money, which often leads to criminal activity such as theft to finance their habit. The Kashmir Valley is slowly becoming a drug hub in Northern India, with over 10,00,000 drug abusers. However, we can address this problem by taking a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, we need to spread awareness about the dangers of drug abuse by engaging the youth in vocational training, skill-building programs, and recreational activities that channel their energies in a positive direction. This will not only keep them away from drugs but also help them realize their full potential. Secondly, we must provide access to rehabilitation centres with trained staff, adequate medical facilities, and counselling services to those struggling with addiction. We need to provide a comprehensive support system that can help them break free from the shackles of addiction. Law enforcement agencies must also play their part in curbing drug trafficking and apprehending drug peddlers to stem the flow of drugs into our region. Finally, as a society, we must take responsibility for preventing drug abuse. Parents, teachers, and religious leaders must guide the youth toward a healthy and fulfilling life by creating a safe and inclusive environment that encourages dialogue and provides support to those in need. In conclusion, we must rally together as a community to combat drug addiction in Kashmir. It is time to dismantle the chains of addiction and reclaim the immaculate beauty of our homeland. Let us forge a brighter tomorrow where our youth can flourish and lead gratifying lives, free from the grip of addiction.
Written byMaleeha Wani
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