How effective have the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan been in addressing substance abuse in India?

As per UNODC, India is most vulnerable to drug abuse due to existence as well as electrification halo as part of Golden Triangle and Golden Crescent. This has led to initiatives like NAPDDR and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. Role of NAPDDR: (1) Focuses on reducing demand of drugs by attitudinal change among youth. (2) Spread awareness about negative impact of drug abuse. (3) Requires role of families in combating substance abuse. (4) Focus on catering employment of youth. (5) De-addiction and rehabilitation. (6) Community engagement.

Impact of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan: (1) Targets complete elimination of drug abuse. (2) Focuses on supply side of drug abuse. (3) Crackdown of drug networks and choking of funds. (4) Inter-state collaboration for effective policing and expected investigations. Way forward: (1) State level initiatives due to Nasha Bhagya, Beta Bathua By Wayana. (2) Employment, generation and youth empowerment. Drug abuse has a multifaceted aspect and demands a holistic approach to avert an upcoming demographic disaster if not tackled on time.