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Sambalpur University 3.1 EXTENT OF THE PROBLEM
Extent of Drug and Tobacco Addiction and Alcoholism in India, Myths Associated with Them,
Academic year: 2021/2022 Health Hazards Associated with them and How they have become silent killers

3.1.0 Objectives
3.1.1 Introduction
Uploaded by:
3.1.2 Definition & Important Concepts
Anonymous Student 3.1.2.1 What is Drug?
Sambalpur University 3.1.2.2 Drug Abuse
3.1.2.3 Alcoholism
3.1.2.4. Drug Addiction and facts related to Narcotic drugs
Comments 3.1.3 The Process of Addiction
3.1.3.1. Addiction to Alcohol
Please sign in or register to post 3.1.3.2. Addiction to Drugs
comments. 3.1.4. Causes of Alcoholism and Drugs Addiction
3.1.4.1. Physiological Causes
3.1.4.2. Individual or Psychological Causes
Report Document 3.1.4.3. Sociocultural /Environmental Causes
3.1.5. Extent of Drug and Tobacco Addiction and Alcoholism in India
3.1.5.1 Extent of substance abuse in India
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1
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3 EXTENT OF THE PROBLEM

Extent of Drug and Tobacco Addiction

and Alcoholism in India, Myths
Associated with Them, Health Hazards

3.1.0 Objectives
Addiction to drugs and alcohol is today a worldwide crisis. The demand for and supply of
pharmaceuticals made in laboratories and naturally are both rising. The number of addicts is
rising and affecting nations all over the world, including India. As a result, the nation's
productivity has decreased. The majority of the countries are now starting to take the issue
seriously and acting to reduce it. The issue of alcoholism and drug addiction is covered in this
unit. After studying this lesson, you will be able to:
 Give an overview of the situation of drug and alcohol abuse and addiction in India;
 Describe the types of drugs and the causes as well as process of addiction; and
 Discuss the relationship between drugs addiction and alcoholism with health hazards and
crime
3.1.1 Introduction
Alcoholism and drug addiction are a worldwide menace at present. This is widespread
among adolescents, young adults and others. This substance abuse, like an epidemic, has taken
thousands of lives and threatens millions of lives worldwide. Besides, this also leads to various
biological and psychological problems for the individual indulging in their use. This worldwide
phenomenon has affected several nations, including India. National production has suffered as a
result all over the world. Most countries are now beginning to take the issue seriously and are
taking action to lessen it.
The Report of United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes find that around 275 million
people were drug users worldwide in 2020, while over 36 million people suffered from drug use
disorders. A recent report (2022) suggests that around 284 million people aged between 15-64
use drugs worldwide, which is a 26 per cent increase over the previous decade. The same report
makes an observation that the rate of substance use is phenomenally high among the young aged
between 18 and 25. In Africa and Latin America, people aged under 35 represent the majority of
people being treated for drug use disorders. This substance abuse, like an epidemic, has taken
thousands of lives and threatens millions of lives worldwide. Besides, this also leads to various
biological and psychological problems for the individual indulging in substance abuse. This
worldwide phenomenon has affected several nations, including India. As a result, national
production has suffered all over the world. Women abusers in South Asian countries are on the
increase. They account for 17 percent of lifetime abusers. Reports show that a substantial
percentage of women drug addicts are divorced, separated, and widowed (India and Sri Lanka).

2
 3

The drug market today is the most profitable market attracting an increasing number of
customers. It is a supply-driven market that makes people, particularly the young, fall an easy
and physiological dependence. That is to say that the individual feels a false sense of well-being
prey to substance use. Unknowingly, thousands of teenagers, adolescents and youth are
and cannot function mentally and physically when they take drugs.
becoming victims of substance use today. Most countries are now beginning to take the issue
seriously and taking action to resolve it.
Do you know?
There are over 190 million drug users around the world. These users are now identified as
3.1.2 Definition and Important Concepts
drug abusers. Drug abuse is a mounting problem showing an alarming increase rate. This
In the following subsections, we will discuss the definitions of some of the important
is a growing syndrome among young adults under 30. Drug abuse damages the body. Drug
concepts related to alcoholism and drug addictions such as drug use and abuse, addiction,
addicts often use needles to inject drugs. They risk contracting HIV and hepatitis B and C
tolerance, dependence, alcoholism and so on.
infections. Drugs of abuse are usually psychoactive drugs that are used by people for
3.1.2.1 What is Drug?
various reasons, which include:
Drug is a chemical substance which is given to people in order to treat an illness or
disease or to prevent illness or disease. Drugs are chemicals that, when ingested by humans, can
 Curiosity and peer pressure, especially among school children and young adults
alter both their physiological and cognitive functions. A doctor may recommend these chemicals
 The use of prescription drugs that were originally intended to cause pain relief often
as medicine to treat minor illnesses or difficulties, such as difficulty in sleeping, headaches,
turns
tension, etc.into
Mostrecreational
of the time,use.
using these medicines is lawful. When drug are used for non-
 Addictive
medical purposes,chemicals are taking the place of traditional alcohols and are used as part
it is an abuse.
ofDrugs
religious
maypractices or rituals
occasionally for recreational
have non-medical purposes.
purposes. Their usage is prohibited, as with
heroin and brown sugar. Alcohol use is permitted, although it might be dangerous if consumed
frequently or in large amounts. Other substances that fall under the category of socially
3.1.2.3 Alcoholism
acceptable legal drugs include cigarettes, coffee, tea, and others. But
. It they are not
has long thought
been to be
a staple of
hazardous. Some
international drugs,and
cuisines including alcohol,
a common brown
element of sugar,
eventsetc., can befrom
ranging addictive and deadly.
weddings It is
to funerals.
these drugsthere
However, that have
will be discussed
always beeninsome
the next
whosubsection.
could not control their alcohol consumption and as
a3.1.2.2
result,Drug Abuse terrible repercussions.
experienced
Drug "usage" can refer to the use of drugs to treat, prevent illness, or improve health.
Drug abuse is defined as the use of drugs (medical or non-medical) in a quantity, strength,
Alcoholism is
frequency,
best or wayinthat
understood impairstoanthe
relation individual's
concept ofphysical or mental
"addiction." Thefunctioning.
body of theThis indicates
drinker that
suffers
even usingand
functional medications
structural in excess,
harm as a too frequently,
result over an orextended
of this addiction periodareofmany
habit. There time,types
for the
of
incorrect reasons,
alcohol. Only oneorcan
in the
be incorrect
consumed,combination
viz. ethyl constitutes drug abuse.
alcohol (which is used in beer, wine, toddy,
whisky,Inbrandy, rum s,
other word ‘Drug
and Abuse’
arrack is defi
or locally ned as self-administration
prepared liquor). of a drug for non-medical
reasons, in quantities and frequencies, which may impair an individual's ability to function
effectively and result in social, physical or emotional harm. Such drugs produce psychological
3.1.2.4. Drug Addiction and facts related to Narcotic drugs
Drug ‘abuse’ leads to addiction, i.e. inability to lead a regular life in the absence of the
drug/alcohol. The term addiction usually conjures up images of alcoholics and other drug addicts

who manifest physical and/or psychological need for chemical substances. Such individuals rely
on substances to function or feel good (psychological dependence). When their bodies reach a
state of biological adjustment to the chronic presence of a chemical substance (physical
dependence), they require increasing amounts to achieve the desired effect (tolerance). When
denied access to their chemical elixirs, their bodies experience adverse effects (withdrawal),
typically the opposite bodily effects as those sought.
Drugs first alter feelings, thoughts, or behavior as a result of chemical changes in the
brain. In that regard, alcohol is similarly a drug. Drugs can be ingested, smoked, inhaled, sniffed,
drank, or administered intravenously.

3.1.3 The Process of Addiction

It is generally recognized today that addiction is a disease and not simply a sign of moral
weakness or of a lack of will power. In this section, the process of addiction to alcohol and drugs
are examined separately, though the general path is similar.
3.1.3.1. Addiction to Alcohol
Alcoholism has been described as a disease by itself and not just a symptom of a
psychological problem. The disease itself causes psychological and physical problems, which
can be handled, only if the alcoholism itself is treated. It is a progressive disease, i.e. in the
absence of treatment, it worsens.
As a progressive disease, it goes through three different phases. In the Early Phase,
addict preoccupied with the drinks as well as needs for more alcohol for the same effects and
prone to forgetting all that one did under the influence of alcohol.
In the Middle Phase alcohol addict experience loss of control over the quantity, time and
place of consumption. Giving excuses for one’s drinking to others and self. Behave aggressively

5
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pain follows. Either death or mental illness, mark the final stage.

Do you Know?

 Alcohol consumption contributes to 3 million deaths each year.

 While 28% of these deaths are due to injuries from traffic crashes, self-harm and violence,
21% are due to digestive disorders, 19% due to cardiovascular diseases .
Overall,problems
encounters the harmful useareas
in all of alcohol is responsible
of life, for 5.1%
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Chronic every
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driving.

3.1.4. Causes of Alcoholism and Drugs Addiction

3.1.3.2.Research shows
Addiction that the complex phenomena of addiction is more likely to result from a
to Drugs
combination of causes
Addiction than is
to drugs from a single
similar one. Previously,
to alcohol addiction,it in
wasterms
thought thatcharacteristics.
of its particular typesThe
of
people—namely,
addiction to drugsdeviants—were
is also identical more susceptible by
and experienced to the
develop
addict addictions. ThereIn isthenoEarly
in three phases. one
personality type that
Phase, the addict is predisposed
increases to addiction.
the amount While
of drug and theothers
numbermayofmake
times.it The
moreperson
difficult to stop
begins to
using, some time
spend more elements may produce
and money an and
on drugs environment conducive
less on other to addiction
activities development.
in life. Thoughts about These
drugs
are
andlooked at to
the need in have
the following sub-sections.
them become important. In the Middle Phase, the person needs the drug in
3.1.4.1. Physiological
larger quantity Causes
than before to feel well; experiences loss of control over drug use in spite of
repeatedItefforts
has been
anddiscovered that
decisions to a child
stop has athe
or reduce higher
takingrisk
of of getting
drug; addiction
begins to hide if both
drug parents
supplies.;
are addicts. While this does not imply that all addicts' offspring will develop addictions, it does
raise the likelihood. The tendency for alcoholism
6 in particular to run in families raises the
possibility that being predisposed to addiction may be inherited. The amount and frequency of
drug use, the route of intake (injected drugs are more addictive), the availability, access, and cost
of the drug, as well as other environmental influences outside of the family, may all have an
impact on the problem's growth. Other physiological elements, such as alcoholism, nutritional
deficiencies, and dysfunction of various body systems, such as the endocrine system, are thought
to play a role in the development of addiction. But none of these has received definite proof.
3.1.4.2. Individual or Psychological Causes
Addiction has long been considered a psychiatric disorder brought on by personal issues.
According to studies, addicts are insecure people. Many addicts report experiencing minor to
severe mental disturbances as their symptoms. However, it is unclear if addiction creates mental
disorders or whether mental problems induce addiction. Whatever the connection, there is
enough proof to show that addicts struggle with severe personality disorders, feelings of

inadequacy, dependency, powerlessness, isolation, and low self-respect. Addicts have been
shown to have problems related to their childhood as well as current stresses prior to the onset of
addiction. Addiction is seen to be the outcome of learning, as well. Initial drug use results in a
pleasurable sensation or experience. This serves as a reward and could cause the intake to keep
rising. Thus, even a positive initial encounter could result in addiction. But the widely accepted
idea holds that certain personalities are more predisposed to addiction than others.

3.1.4.3. Sociocultural and Environmental Causes

There are several views out there today that say addiction has social roots. People are
more prone to consume drugs and/or alcohol heavily in communities where doing so is seen as
acceptable and when drugs are readily and affordably available. Alcohol use is a feature of
religious events and rituals in several indigenous tribes. Some people may develop an addiction
as a result of such frequent intake. This does not imply that addiction is exclusively encouraged
by availability and acceptability. Some persons who experience normlessness turn to drugs or
alcohol in societies where this intake is not recognised. Teenagers frequently use drugs to rebel
against the standards and ideals of adults. According to the cultural defiance theory, these
emotional and social links to an unconventional group contribute to the development of drug
addiction.
The fact that alcohol and other less-addictive drugs are socially acceptable in some
spheres of society is another element that contributes to this. On some religious and social
occasions, including as weddings, funerals, and festivities, custom in India has long permitted
the use of wine, bhang, and marijuana. This is especially true among several sociocultural
groups. In today's society, drinking is seen as a symbol of social standing and is increasingly
consumed socially across all sociocultural groups. In several Western nations, drinking alcohol is
considered socially acceptable, and taking medications to ease pain or enhance performance is a
common practice.
Another crucial aspect of determining the prevalence of addiction is the substance's legal
standing.has
opioids It is alsoobserved
been thought that the degree
in India of addiction
for centuries, in a culture
the current is closely
dimension of thetied to whether
extent drug
and pattern
of psychoactive
use is sanctioned orsubstance
penalizeduse andsociety.
in that the problems associated
Therefore, with
it is thought thattheir use areofnot
legalization well
drugs as
documented.
well as cultural acceptance of them both raise the rate of addiction. The number of people
According to data on the global situation, the three most commonly misused substances
addicted to "hard" drugs will decrease if milder types of narcotics are legalized. Such people
are alcohol, opium, and cannabis. More men than women are addicted to them. Particularly in
believe that grouping all drugs into one broad category has hurt efforts to avoid addiction.
recent years, heroin addiction has seen a sharp increase. By injecting drugs, a person runs a
significant danger of contracting additional diseases and health issues, such as AIDS (Acquired
8
9

Immune Deficiency Syndrome), as well as death from some of these issues and from taking an
Since ability to tolerate alcohol is equated with one’s manhood, boys often begin to
overdose.
consume alcohol and at times drugs at a young age, due to peer pressure. Persons in jobs that
Earlier, addiction was simply a problem for a select few people, but today's users come in
create stress-physical and/or mental are known to become addicted. Those prone to addiction
all shapes and sizes. In reality, it is becoming more common to use multiple drugs at once, such
thus include persons in conservancy jobs, morticians and morgue workers and rag pickers, etc.
as mixing alcohol and narcotics. Alcohol and other substances are being experimented with at
Even those performing excessively exhausting, monotonous, laborious work e.g. load-carriers
younger ages than in the past. Due to rising prosperity, contemporary life's stressors, widening
and porters, drivers, etc. are prone to alcoholism. Young boys imitate if the family has an adult
economic and social disparities, and a growing sense of discontentment with one's life, the issue
addict. Besides aggravating of stress by the family at periods of transition, e.g. adolescence, the
is slowly getting worse in India, affecting both urban and rural communities.
absence of reasonable parental control, and a disunited and dysfunctional family.
3.1.5.1. Extent of substance abuse in India
Sociological theorists offer other explanations as well. The theory of strain holds that
Recently published report “Magnitude of Substance Use in India 2019” presents the
people turn to drugs and alcohol because social conditions in their environment do not provide
major findings of the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India
them adequate opportunity for achievement. This is particularly so for lower socio-economic
commissioned by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India in
groups and other socially disadvantaged groups.
collaboration with the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC), All India
It is also believed that people, because of their consumption of alcohol and other drugs
Institute of Medical Sciences, (AIIMS), New Delhi, in terms of proportion of Indian population
and life-style become labeled as “deviants”, tend to become dependent on drugs and/or alcohol,
affected by substance use.
as these become the most important aspects of their lives.
The survey finds that there is widespread substance use among all demographic
Therefore, it is evident that a number of sociocultural, psychological, and physical
categories in India, although adult men are disproportionately affected by substance use
factors, including curiosity, stressful environments, early drinking, mental health issues, drinking
problems. This survey also shows that there are significant differences in the extent and
while taking medication, genetic issues, a lack of family supervision, large and dysfunctional
prevalence of use across states and among different substances.
families, wealth and weakening of parent-child ties, disregard for social values and a common
Indians most frequently use alcohol as a psychedelic substance (among those included in
human goal, changing socio-cultural norms and values, lack of community control, absence of
this survey). Between 10 and 75 years old, 14.6% of the population nationwide uses alcohol. In
interpersonal relationships, and others, contribute to this epidemic.
terms of absolute numbers, the country has roughly 16 crore alcohol consumers. Men use alcohol
3.1.5 Extent of Drug and Tobacco Addiction and Alcoholism in India
at a rate that is significantly greater than women (27.3%). (1.6 percent). There are 17 alcohol-
In the above section we have deliberated upon various conceptual aspect of drug and
using men for every woman who drinks alcohol. Spirits or Indian Made Foreign Liquor
alcohol additions. In the subsequent paragraphs we will discuss the extant of the drug and
(approximately 30 percent) and country liquor, sometimes known as "desi sharab," are the most
alcohol addiction
popular alcoholic inbeverages
India at the present
among time. The states with the highest rates of alcohol use
drinkers.
include Although the Arunachal
Goa, Punjab, use of various psychoactive
Pradesh, Tripura, andsubstances such as alcohol, cannabis and
Chhattisgarh.

10

(Source: Ambekar A, et.al, Magnitude of Substance Use in India. New, 2019)

Cannabis and opioids are the second most popular drugs in India after alcohol. A total of
3.1 crore people, or about 2.8 percent of the population, report using cannabis products in the 12
months prior. The authorized form of cannabis (bhang) and other illicit cannabis products were
further distinguished in terms of cannabis consumption (ganja and charas). About 2.2 crore
people (or about 2 percent) were found to use bhang, and about 1.3 crore people (or about 1.2
percent) were found to use illegal cannabis products like ganja and charas. Uttar Pradesh,
Punjab, Sikkim, Chhattisgarh, and Delhi are the states with the highest rates of cannabis
consumption.
 11
12

(Source: Ambekar A, et.al, Magnitude of Substance Use in India. New, 2019)

(Source: Ambekar A, et.al, Magnitude of Substance Use in India. New, 2019)
Inhalants (overall prevalence 0.7%) are the only category of substances for which the
Opioids, such as Opium (or its derivatives such poppy husk known as doda/phukki),
prevalence of current use among children and adolescents is higher (1.17%) than adults (0.58%).
Heroin (or its impure form, smack or brown sugar), and a range of pharmaceutical opioids, are
Other categories of drugs such as, Cocaine (0.10%) Amphetamine Type Stimulants (0.18%) and
used by about 2.1 percent of the population of the country (2.26 crore people). Heroin (1.14%),
Hallucinogens (0.12%) are used by a small proportion of country’s population.
prescription opioids (0.96%), and opium are the most often used opioids in the country (0.52
percent
Every). year
Withonregard
Juneto26th
overall
, theopioid use, Sikkim,
International Arunachal
Day Against Pradesh,
Drug MisuseNagaland,
and IllicitManipur, and
Trafficking
is commemorated
Mizoram with rates
have the highest the goal of than
(more raising awareness
10 percent ). about the problem of drug abuse and
addiction, as well as its consequences, among individuals and communities.

Drug Abuse Figures of India

 In India, 19 metropolitan cities are at a high risk of drug abuse. Mumbai reported
the highest number of cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances
(NDPS) Act.
 Among states, Uttar Pradesh reports the highest number of drug addicts, the
number being 10,852. Uttar Pradesh is followed by Punjab and Tamil Nadu in
terms of the number of drug abusers, the cases being 6,909 and 5,403 respectively.
 Kerala reported 4,968 cases and took the fourth place while Maharashtra filed
4,714 cases and came in the fifth place.
 Mumbai reported 3,509 cases under the NDPS Act.
 Bengaluru records a total number of 2,766 cases and Indore, 998 cases.
 (Source:
Punjab Ambekar
recorded A, et.al,
6,909 casesMagnitude of Substance
and Tamil Nadu, Use in India. New, 2019)
5,403 cases.
According to the report, a sizable percentage of people take sedatives and inhalants.
3.1.5.2. Harmful
Approximately 1.18and Dependent
crore Use
Indians aged 10 to 75 (or 1.08 percent) currently take sedatives (non-
medical,A non-prescription
small percentageuse).
of most
Thedrugs andrates
highest substances users reachsedative
of contemporary the threshold
use arefor "harmful
seen in the
use"
statesand "dependence."
of Sikkim, ButManipur,
Nagaland, the percentage of risky However,
and Mizoram. or dependent users
the top varied
five statesaccording on the
with the highest
substance (indicating
sedative use the differential
rates are Uttar propensity ofPunjab,
Pradesh, Maharashtra, variousAndhra
substances to develop
Pradesh, problem use).
and Gujarat.
For the health and social welfare sectors, the total of the estimates of harmful and dependent use
represents the "quantum of work" (i.e., the percentage of the population that requires assistance).
At the national level, as many as 19% of current users of alcohol consume alcohol in a
dependent pattern. According to estimates, 2.7 percent, or 2.9 crore people, of the general
population (10-75 years old), consume alcohol in a dependent manner. A further 2.7 crore people
(or 2.5 percent of the population) in the nation engage in problematic alcohol use. In other
words, more than 5.7 crore people, or around 5.2 percent of the population, are impacted by
hazardous or dependent alcohol consumption and require assistance. One in five drinkers have
alcohol dependence and require immediate treatment. The following states have high rates of

13

alcohol use disorders (greater than 10% prevalence): Tripura, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab,
Chhattisgarh, and Arunachal Pradesh.

(Source: Ambekar A, et.al, Magnitude of Substance Use in India. New, 2019)

The percentage of people who use cannabis problematically (i.e., in a hazardous or
dependent manner) is rather low. One in eleven cannabis users (or 0.25 percent) in the country
has a cannabis dependence problem. But when it comes to dependent use, bhang and
ganja/charas differ significantly. While just roughly one in sixteen bhang users were cannabis
dependent, this number was one in seven for ganja/charas users.

(Source: Ambekar A, et.al, Magnitude of Substance Use in India. New, 2019 )

When compared to consumers of other opioids like opium and pharmaceutical opioids,
heroin users are much more likely to be addicted to opioids. According to estimates, 77 lakh
Indians, or around 0.70 percent of the population, struggle with opiate consumption. Only a few
states—Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, and
Gujarat—contribute more than half of the country's estimated 77 lakh individuals with opioid use
disorders (harmful or dependent pattern). The top states in the nation, however, in terms of the

14
alcohol use disorders. While cannabis usage is less common than the global average, opioid use
percentage of the population afflicted, are those in the north-east (Mizoram, Nagaland,
is three times more common in India than it is elsewhere, according to statistics on illegal drug
Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Manipur), along with Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.
use. Opium was the most common opioid used by men in India in 2004. According to this
Numerous other drug users, including those who use sedatives and inhalants, also require
survey, not only is total opioid use higher than it was in 2004, but heroin use has surpassed
support. About 0.20 percent of Indians in general need assistance with their sedative usage
opium use as the most popular opioid.
issues. According to estimates, 4.6 lakh children and 18 lakh adults in the country require
3.1.5.3 The Way Forward
assistance due to their dangerous usage or dependence of inhalants. The states with the highest
India requires significant investments to improve the treatment options due to the
percentage of kids seeking assistance for inhalant usage in terms of absolute numbers are Uttar
country's large treatment gap (difference between demand and availability of treatment services).
Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Delhi, and Haryana. Compared to the size of the
This report referred above demonstrates that a significant portion of the Indian population suffers
country's population, the number of cocaine, stimulant, and hallucinogen users is incredibly low.
from substance use disorders and requires immediate assistance. The governmental programmes
for the treatment of substance use disorders, however, fall woefully short in terms of their reach.
Protecting the youth of the nation is of paramount importance. Very often, drug use
prevention is seen (erroneously) as synonymous with spreading awareness about dangers of drug
use among young people. Evidence for effectiveness of awareness generations as the
predominant preventive strategy, is very weak. Prevention programmes must address the risk and
protective factors aimed at not just preventing substance use but ensuring that young people
grow and stay healthy into adulthood, enabling them to realize their potential and become
productive members of their community and society.
Findings indicate that despite the existence of strict drug control laws and a multitude of
(Source: Ambekar A, et.al, Magnitude of Substance Use in India. New, 2019)
agencies working towards drug supply control, a wide variety of the controlled drugs are being
Around 8.5 lakh drug injectors are thought to be present nationwide. The opioid family of
used and a sizeable number of Indians suffer from addiction to these drugs. Results also indicate
medicines is primarily injected by People Who Inject Drugs PWID (heroin – 46 percent and
a shift in demand for psychoactive substances, from traditional, low-potency, plant-based
pharmaceutical opioids – 46 percent). Many PWID report using dangerous injection techniques.
products (e.g. opium) to more potent and processed products (e.g. heroin). Thus, there may be
According to estimates, the states of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana,
elements of drug supply control which influence the pattern of demand. The non-medical,
Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Manipur, and Nagaland have high PWID rates.
recreational use of controlled pharmaceutical products remains a concern. There needs to be an
The majority of those suffering from substance use problems do not have access to
efficient coordination between the drug supply control sector as well as the entities involved in
treatment programmes. Only one in thirty-eight alcohol-dependent individuals report receiving
drug demand reduction and harm reduction.
any kind of treatment or assistance for their drinking issues. One in four people who use illegal
Besides, proper regulation for production and distribution control of drugs and alcohol is
substances and are addicted to them have ever sought therapy. Even fewer people with alcohol
necessary in order to combat the issue. Along with regulations proper preventive education
and drug issues seek hospitalization or inpatient treatment. About one in 180 people who
programmes, public awareness programmes by both governmental and non-governmental
struggle with alcoholism and one in 20 people who struggle with illicit drug addiction report
agencies for prevention of addiction is highly required. Alcohol continues to be a major income-
receiving inpatient care.
earner for many countries. Alcoholism affects a larger section of society than drug addiction and
The prevalence of alcohol usage appears to have remained consistent with previous
studies of a similar nature, however a sizable percentage of Indians (more than 5%) experience

16
15

affects all socio-economic sections. Today there is a strong demand to view alcoholism as a
serious social problem along with drug addiction.

3.1.6. Myths related to Drugs and Alcohol Usage

Myths are what is popularly believed but in fact are false. The general public has not
properly understood drugs and their effects. Many people become addicts due to false notions
related to drugs. Let us discuss some of those myths prevalent in Indian society here:
Only weak individuals become addicts: In actuality, the opposite is true: Addicts develop
into frail people. Nobody uses drugs with the intention of becoming addicted. As we just
observed, there are various reasons why people start abusing drugs. Even at that point, a drug
addict has a strong will to obtain their drug supply. An addict will do anything to keep using
drugs. Aside from that, motivation affects how strong a person's will is. Priority affects
motivation. Chemicals are the addict's top priority since they offer him a quick fix for all of his
issues. As a result, the addict selects to obtain the chemicals over any other form of gratification.
Drugs give mental and physical strength: Drugs can alter a person's capacity for
reasoning. As a result, he will be prepared to perform tasks that he was previously unable to
complete because of drug use. Second, gaining strength is simply a temporary solution. Drugs
can also make someone appear brave by assisting them in overcoming inhibitions and fears.
Recreational use of drugs is not harmful: All illegal drugs are harmful. They cause
physical and psychological changes in the user. Prolonged drug use leads to addiction. Besides
all drugs are expensive. They make the user poor physically and financially. It also encourages
drug trafficking.
Everybody is taking drugs: The truth is that persons who take drugs often use this
defence to justify their actions. Despite the fact that there are many drug users, the majority of
individuals do not use drugs. It is challenging to deal with peer pressure, and it takes more
fortitude and stamina to defend the moral high ground and to abstain from drugs. Drug use is not
widespread.
Drugs help to forget failures and painful events of life: The truth is that it merely aids in
forgetting for the one to three hours that the chemical's effect lasts. It only functions in the short
term. Burying issues alive is akin to a ghost that will one day return to haunt you.
Drugs help to keep peer group status: The fact is that the peer group has no status all
those who drink are drinking because they cannot stop drinking. They want to stop but cannot.
The status the peer group pretends to have is unreal and unhealthy.

17
 Drugs improve your concentration: Drugs can improve mental function, but they can
term)
damage alcohol use can
brain cells overmake
time.pain worse.
Drugs Alcoholics
are used experiencing
by students and anyonealcohol withdrawal
who need longer symptoms
periods to
may experience increasedmany
work or study. However, sensitivity
people to pain. addicted
become Additionally, prolonged
to drugs, and overheavy
time,drinking
they die might
early.
really result
Brilliant poetin Byron
a specific sort of
passed nerve
away in discomfort.
his 20s due to alcoholism. As a result, it's important to
Alcohol Gives You Warmth: Alcohol can make you feel warm, but it doesn't actually
respond carefully to any conversations that are had about using drugs.
warm your body up. Your blood vessels may widen as a result of drinking, boosting the blood
Consuming alcohol is normal, common, healthy and very responsible: Supporter of
flow. More
Alcohol blood "regular"
presents starts to flow to your
drinkers as skin as a result,
outgoing peoplegiving
at theyou the sensation
center of a social
of a thriving warm hug.
life.
However,
They claimwhenthat you drink, alcohol
drinking your body actuallytoloses
is linked goodheat morefortune,
health, quickly,prosperity,
making you feel cooler.
tradition, and
Alcohol is also a diuretic. As a result, your body will lose more water, which could make you
manners. Alcohol is almost usually associated with good health, sports, physical attractiveness,
feel dehydrated. Therefore, exercise caution when drinking outside in the cold and refrain from
romance, friendships, and leisure activities in advertisements. Contrary to these myths, the reality
mistaking a glass
is that regular of whisky
drinkers for a warm
contribute blanket. to social costs of alcohol harm, consume more
significantly
Beer is good for your hair: Have you noticed the countless banners hawking beer
than the "recommended" number of units, and are linked to a variety of negative outcomes such
shampoos and otherproductivity
as unemployment, hair care items
loss,that claim to
violence, have more
suicide, child alcohol than your
abuse, NCDs, drinks?and
poverty, Doother
you
find it surprising that there is no proof, according to science, that beer makes hair better? While
drug use.
beer is a great beverage to enjoy with friends while sharing stories and conversations, it should
Darker drinks are healthier: There is a misconception that alcohol with deeper hues is
not be usedHowever,
healthier. as a shampoo or self-care
the truth product.
is that while Applying
dark or beverages
alcoholic ingesting itlike
has bourbon
no clinical
andbenefit for
whiskey
your
may skin
haveand hair.compounds that are healthy for the body, they also include more harmful
more
God and sages used to drink so we can drink: Some people say in the Vedic times, gods
substances that worsen hangovers. Since flavonoids have a strong anti-inflammatory effect on
used to drink Soma drink which was an intoxicating drink. Hence, there is no problem with
the body, dark beers actually contain more of them than light beer. Red wine contains higher
drinking alcohol.
polyphenols than Itwhite
is a fact thatthese
wine; therecompounds
are references in ancient
function literature
as blood regardinginconsumption
antioxidants preventing
of liquor.
heart But cancer,
disease, at the same time, potential
and other they also ailments.
speak against the alcohol
However, darker consumption. Drinking
liquids also contain the
larger
spirituous liquor called Sura is considered as a mortal sin (mahapataka)”. There are many other
concentrations of congeners, harmful substances produced by fermentation. Although they are
scriptures
not like Brahmanas
fatal, they andaSutras
might worsen that condemn
hangover, the consumption
so you might of liquor
feel like you're goingasto
well
die.asIn
allow
fact,ona
some occasions. The Chandogya Upanishad clearly states that drinking alcohol is one of the five
study compared the reported symptoms of hangover in individuals who drank the same amounts
biggest sins. Therefore,
of dark bourbon weBourbon
and vodka. can saydrinkers
that consumption
complainedofof alcohol is prohibited
more severe hangover in Hinduism.
symptoms.
Whatever it may be we are living in modern scientific age. We understand the medical problem
Drinking is a Good Way to Take the Edge Off Chronic Pain: Alcohol is occasionally
associated with alcohol.
used by people Hence, (chronic)
with long-term it is necessary
pain to
to debunk traditional
lessen their myths
suffering. and are
There protect our own
a number of
health.
reasons why this might not be the best option. Painkillers and alcohol should not be combined.
As drug
The chance use has spread
of developing throughout
liver issues, the bleeding,
stomach world, myths haveissues
or other grownmay
andrise
facts have
when been
alcohol
distorted
is consumedand subjected
alongside to ridicule. Wrong
painkillers. information
It makes alcoholismabout drugs
more as well
likely as alcohols
to develop. Mostand their
people
effects
require is
morecommon
than a among
moderatetheamount
public.ofGovernments, scientists,
alcohol to feel experts, andasothers
better. Additionally, have up
one builds onlya
limited success
tolerance communicating
to alcohol, accurate
they will need information.
to consume more Individuals
to have the often
same begin taking
level of pain drugs as an
alleviation.
experiment, with the belief that the substances are not dangerous. If the drug gives the effect that
Drinking that much raises the possibility of developing alcohol use disorders. Chronic (long-
the individual is seeking then the user’s lack of knowledge about the health consequences

18
19

permits continued use. By the time the dangers are fully realized, it is too late for that person to
stop taking drugs or to reverse the damage.

3.1.7 Health Hazards Associated with them and how they have become silent killers
Abusing substances harms a person's physical, psychological, and emotional health. His
or her social connections deteriorate and their financial situation deteriorates. A individual starts
using drugs to try to overcome his issues. They don't decrease; they just keep becoming bigger.
Drugs harm the body's essential organs, including the liver, brain, heart, kidneys, etc. In this
state, he cannot support himself and requires a large sum of money to keep getting narcotics.
Addiction to drugs and alcohol has major health consequences in addition to social and economic
risks.
3.1.7.1 Health Consequences of Drug Abuse
Alcohol and drug consumption has been identified as an important risk factor for illness,
disability, and mortality. They are health damaging. The extent, degree and the type of health
damage related to alcohol and drug use depend upon the drug type, period of use, route of use,
amount of consumption, adulterants in street samples, and other high risk behaviors.
According to World Drug Report, 2021 published by the United Nation Office on Drugs
and Crime (UNODC) in 2019 approximately half a million (5,00,000) deaths occur worldwide
due to drug abuse. Further the report reveals that in 2019, 18 million healthy life were lost owing
to drug use disorders. More than half of the deaths were due to liver cancer, cirrhosis and other
chronic liver diseases resulting from hepatitis C, but the increase reflects, in part, the rise in
overdose deaths attributed to use of opioids such as fentanyl. Deaths related to drug use disorders
have nearly doubled over the past decade, far outstripping any increase in the number of users,
suggesting that drug use has become more harmful. The official rates quoted are much lower.
Most of the countries do not have adequate reporting facilities for reporting damages caused by
drug abuse.
Drugs like heroin can cause death due to overdose. Alcohol overdose does not lead to
death. Long-term period of drug use is a health hazard. Most of the addicts who use narcotics
and stimulants die prematurely. Alcohol and cannabis users take a long time to get addicted, so
health problems occur late in life. Drugs that are orally taken have less chance of leading to
overdose. In case of an overdose, the person vomits, and thus the toxic reaction is slowed down.
Adulteration of drugs has caused severe health problems. Often drugs are adulterated with very

20
poisonous substance to increase their quantity and potency. Rat poison, DDT and other
Neuropsychiatric
poisonous Disorders:
ingredients are reported With in
to be found respect to sold
the drugs neuropsychiatric
in the street. disorders, alcohol
consumption
Abusehas by farencourages
of drugs the greatestdangerous
impact onbehavior.
risk for alcohol
A persondependence. However, alcohol
who uses hallucinogens may
also has been
experience associatedsense
a misleading with of
basically all mental
time, space, disorders.
and sound. The relationship
The usage between
of hallucinogens alcohol
results in a
and epilepsy is much clearer. There is substantial evidence that alcohol consumption can cause
lot of accidents. It is a proven fact that drug usage lowers one's resistance to illness. The ability
unprovoked seizures.
to fight infectious Most ofsuch
diseases, the relevant studies
as bacterial, found
viral, or that a high
parasite percentage
infections, canofbe
heavy alcohol
lowered by
users withand
drinking epilepsy meet the
medication criteria
usage. Theof alcohol dependence.
following facts have been discovered after extensive study
Cardiovascular
in the fields of immunityDisease:
and drug The overall
abuse effect years:
for many of alcohol consumption
Drug misuse on the
decreases global
the body's
cardiovascular diseasedecreases
resistance to disease, burden is the
detrimental. Theantibodies
creation of effects of that
alcohol
fightondisease,
the cardiovascular system
slows the immune
are well documented and range from the protective effects of light drinking for ischemic stroke
system's response time, and decreases the body's capacity to successfully fight disease.
and coronary disease through to the increased risk from heavy drinking for hemorrhagic stroke,
cardiomyopathy, hypertension and cardiac arrhythmias. Alcohol consumption mainly has
3.1.7.2. Health Hazards Related to Alcohol Consumption
harmful effects on the risk for hemorrhagic stroke, which are mediated at least in part by
More than 30 conditions listed in the WHO’s International Classification of Diseases,
alcohol’s impact on hypertension.
10th Edition (ICD–10) (WHO 2007) include the term “alcohol” in their name or definition,
Diseases of the Liver and Pancreas: Alcohol consumption has marked and specific
indicating that alcohol consumption is a necessary cause underlying these conditions. This
effects on the liver and pancreas, as evidenced by the existence of disease categories such as
group's most important disease conditions are alcohol use disorders (AUDs), which include
alcoholic liver disease, alcoholic liver cirrhosis, and alcohol induced acute or chronic
alcohol dependence and harmful use or alcohol abuse. Disease and injury conditions for which
pancreatitis. Worldwide alcohol is one of the most important reasons for an end-stage liver
alcohol consumption is a component cause contribute more to the global burden of disease than
disorder. Alcoholic fatty liver is generally asymptomatic and may produce no changes in liver
do alcohol specific conditions. Overall, the following are the main disease and injury categories
function tests other than those related to the direct effect of the alcohol on liver function in the
impacted by alcohol consumption (listed in the order of their ICD–10 codes).
early stages. It may, however, present with right abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, which
Infectious Diseases: Alcohol consumption has a detrimental impact on key infectious
resolve on abstinence. Alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis result from chronic alcohol abuse.
diseases such as tuberculosis, infection with the human immune-deficiency virus (HIV) and
Alcoholic hepatitis produces liver cell necrosis and inflammation. Cirrhosis involves a
pneumonia.
permanent loss of liver cells, which are replaced by fibrosis with loss of the normal liver
Cancer: The Monograph Working Group of the International Agency for Research on
architecture. The clinical presentation is with jaundice, pyrexia, right abdominal pain, ascites and
Cancer concluded that there was sufficient evidence for the alcoholic beverages as carcinogenic
possible encephalopathy. In patients with poor liver function and a prothrombin time prolonged
to humans. Now it an established fact chronic alcohol consumption is a strong risk factor for
to a degree which precludes liver biopsy, the prognosis is poor, with a third of patients dying in
cancer in the oral cavity, pharynx, hypo pharynx, larynx and esophagus and is also a major
the acute episode. Acute and chronic pancreatitis and gastritis and peptic ulcer are other
etiological factor in hepato carcinogenesis. Alcohol also increases the risk for cancer of the
gastrointestinal consequences of alcohol abuse.
colorectal and the breast.
Unintentional Injuries: The link between alcohol and almost all kinds of unintentional
Diabetes: Higher consumption of alcohol is associated with an increased risk of diabetes.
injuries has long been established. The acute effects of alcohol consumption on injury risk are
Detrimental effect of diabetes has been found starting at about four standard drinks (50 to 60
mediated by how regularly the individual drinks. People who drink less frequently are more
grams of pure alcohol) per day.
likely to be injured or to injure others. There also is a clear link between alcohol consumption
and aggression, including, but not limited to, homicides.

21
22

Reproductive disorders: In premenopausal female alcoholics, there is an increase in the

frequency of menstrual disturbances, abortions and miscarriages and infertility. Regular
consumption of alcohol during pregnancy may affect the foetus. The abnormalities range from
growth retardation to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). Children with FAS have reduced body
weight and height, are hyperactive and have subnormal intelligence. Their faces may be
recognized by short palpebral fissures, short upturned noses, mid facial hypoplasia, low nasal
bridge and a thin upper lip. Studies of male alcoholics have reported that alcohol consumption
may affect spermatogenesis and spermatogenesis and cause reduced sperm counts.

3.1.7.3. Alcohol, Drug Use and HIV/AIDS

Alcohol dependency is a common phenomenon. In India we do not have reliable statistics
about the relationship between drug abuse and HIV/ AIDS. Yet the injecting drug users report
that drug and alcohol use precipitates risk behavior that leads to HIV transmission. It is true that
alcohol and drug use do not cause infection with HIV. Mood altering drugs may, however, be co-
factor. The biggest concerns that relate alcohol and drug use to HIV infection and the
development of AIDS are listed below:
1) People drunk or taking drugs are likely to engage in risky behavior that leads to HIV
infection.
2) Persons with lowered immunity due to their previous alcohol and drug use may be
more likely to become infected with HIV when exposed.
3) Persons already infected with HIV may continue to destroy their immune system
through drug and alcohol use.
4) Persons using alcohol or drugs may be more likely to participate in unsafe sexual
behavior, increasing the risk that they will be exposed to HIV-or if they are already exposed, that
they will increase the risk of transmitting HIV to others or becoming re-infected themselves.
Drug users share needles to push drugs. If one of the persons in the group is infected the
others in the group are sure to be infected by the needle they share. Some of the drug users are
likely to experiment with risky sexual behaviors with the same sex as well as the opposite sex.
This increases the risk of infection.

Addiction is the only disease that tells you that you don’t have a disease.” Jason Z. W. Powers

Alcohol and drugs are silent killer. Their consumption slowly damages internal organs of
human body without any apparent major signs or symptoms for early detection. Drugs and

23

alcohol can affect every organ of the human body; however, some organs such as liver, heart,
pancreas and brain are more prone to severe damage. Hence, it is important not to ignore the
warning signs of
Onealcoholism
constantly andthinks
drug abuse
about before it is its
the drug, toouse,
late to
howreverse
to getthethe
health
drugcondition.
and one is
unable
Even when thetoill-effects
emotionally lead a normal
of alcoholism andlife without taking
consumption the drug
of deadly (psychological)
tobacco products are
Depressants : Drugs that slow down the activity of the brain.
very well evident in our society, citizens continue to reel under the menace of these silent killers.
Drug :
Commercialism, Any chemical
it seems, hassubstance
overtakenwhich
healthwhen put into
interests. the body affects
The lackadaisical the way
attitude thepeople
of the body

and the societyworks and theleaves

in particular mind no
thinks duethat
doubt to chemical
we are notreactions in the this
serious about brain.
menace which will
Drug
hit us Abuse: Therun
in the long useif of chemical
steps are notsubstances
taken now.(medicinal and more
We are seeing non-medicinal) in an
of the young amount,
addicted to
alcohol, drugs strength, frequency
and tobacco. or manner
Usually, tobaccothat
usedamage the physical
is combined or mental functioning.
with alcoholism or recreational
Hallucinogens: Drugs is
drug abuse. Prevention that change
better thanthe way we
cure.” Thesee, hear
need of and feel. is to see that all the concerned
the hour
Opiates :
people should Drugstogether
work obtainedand
from opium or artificial
be determined substitutes
to get rid that have
of these social opium-like
evils, forever. effects.
Stimulants : Drugs that give a feeling of excitement as they increase the activity of the brain.
Tolerance : The need for more quantity of the drug and frequent use of the drug to produce
3.1.8. Let us sum up
the same effect from the drug, as earlier.
This unit began with definitions and explanations of different concepts related to
Withdrawal Symptoms : Painful physical reactions ranging from physical discomfort to
alcoholism and drug abuse, such as the meaning of the term’s drugs, alcohol, drug abuse, and the
severe vomiting and cramps, when the drug consumption is suddenly stopped, in
concept and causes of alcoholism and addiction. Then a brief description of the extant of the
the case of an addict.
menace of alcoholism and drugs abuse in India has been presented. Some myths favoring drugs
abuse and alcohol consumption as prevailing in the society are dealt with and debunked. The unit
3.1.10. Check Your Learning
ended with a discussion on health hazards associated with drugs and alcoholism and how they
Q.1. Definitional Type
are becoming a silent killer in human society. We have learnt that alcoholism and drug abuse are
a) Addiction
complex social problems. It is a problem of society, family and the individual, and, therefore, it
b) Drug Abuse
requires joint efforts of the government institutions, which includes health education and social
c) Alcoholism
welfare, voluntary organizations, legislative and political bodies, community at large, and the
d) Drug Trafficking
affected families to find solutions to this problem.
e) Depressants
f) Drugs Tolerance
3.1.9. Key Words
g) Tolerance
Addiction: Inability to lead a regular life in the absence to use of the chemical substance; is
Q.2. Analytical Type
defined as a disease.
a) Define drug addiction as a disease.
Alcohol : A drug that is addictive and affects the way the body and mind works.
b) What are the different types of drugs? Discuss with example.
Alcoholism : A chronic illness involving excessive and repeated drinking beyond customary
c) What is denial? How does it promote addiction?
use, such that it interferes with work, family, social and economic life of person.
d) Discuss the socio-cultural and environmental causes responsible for addictions.
Cannabis : Drugs produced from different parts of hemp plant.
e) In what way Individual or Psychological Causes leads to addiction?
Q.3. Essay type
24
25

a) Discuss the different stages of drugs addiction and alcoholism.

Dependence : The body cannot perform its normal functions without taking the drug (physical).
b) Define drug addiction and alcoholism. Discuss the causes responsible for addiction of
drugs and alcohol.
c) Examine and debunked the myths associated with drug addiction and alcoholism in
India.
d) Discuss the health consequences of drugs and alcohols on human body and mind.
e) “Addiction is the only disease that tells you that you don’t have a disease” elaborate
the phrase with the idea that addiction of drugs and alcohol as a silent killer in human
society.

3.1.11. Suggested Readings

 Anil, Agarwal., Narcotic Drugs, National Book Trust, New Delhi, 1995.
 Larry, Siegel (ed), AIDS and Substance Abuse, Harrington Park press, New York, 1987.
 Singh, Gurmeet., “Alcoholism in India”, in Alan and D.A. DeSouza (ed.) Psychiatry in
India, Bhalani Book Depot, Bombay : pp.240-251, 1984.
 Ranganathan, T.T., Alcoholism and drug dependence, Clinical Research Foundation,
Chennai, 1989.
 UNDCP, Drug Abuse, United Nations Department of Public Information, Geneva, 1992.
 UNDCP Regional Office for South Asia., Drug Demand Reduction Report, New Delhi,
1999.
 Ambekar A, Agrawal A, Rao R, Mishra AK, Khandelwal SK, Chadda RK on behalf of
the group of investigators for the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance
Use in India, Magnitude of Substance Use in India. New Delhi: Ministry of Social Justice
and Empowerment, Government of India, 2019.
 Donovan, D.M. & Marlatt, G.A. (Eds.)., Assessment of Addictive Behaviors (2nd Ed.).
New York: Guilford Press, 2005.
 Arnold Washton & Donna Boundy., Will Power is Not Enough, Harper Perennial, New
York, 1989.
 Dennis E Poplin Scott., Social Problems, Foresman and Co, Illinois, USA, 1978.

26

3.2. Socio-Economic Impact of Drug Abuse

3.2 Objective
3.2.1 Introduction
3.2.2 Definition and important concepts
3.2.2.1 What is Socio-economic impact of drug?
3.2.2.2 What is Tobacco Addiction?
3.2.2.3 What is alcoholism?
3.2.3 Social Impact of drug
  Impact
3.2.3.1 of drug
Appreciate howon family
drug and community
addiction affects the social and individual life
 Impact
3.2.3.2 Enable of
you to identify
drug the economic loss due to drug abuse
on health
3.2.3.3
3.2.1 Impact of drug on Education
Introduction
3.2.3.4 Impact of drug on crime
Drug abuse is a major social issue. Today there is no part of the world which is free from drug
3.2.3.5 Impact of drug on work
abuse. India is also caught in this vicious problem of drug abuse. Drug addiction causes a huge cost
3.2.3.6 Impact of drug on environment
3.2.4onEconomic
human resources
Impact asofwell
Drugas it promotes illegal production and distribution of drugs. Drug abuse
has a direct impact on social and economic aspect of the nation. The impact of drug is realized in
3.2.4.1. Impact of drug on Public safety
workplace, family and the society. It results in violence at home and gang wars in cities, increase
3.2.4.2 Impact of drug on Governance
crimes and even stresses the public health system and we find young mass addicted to drugs. It
3.2.5 Impact of drug and tobacco addiction and alcoholism
leads to unsafe life. Drug addiction not only breaks the family harmony but also puts high economic
3.2.5.1 Loss of physical and mental strength
burden on the society. The economic impact due to Drug abuse is immeasurable. The use,
3.2.5.2 Loss of character
production and marketing of drugs, emergence of a class of drug consumers is a huge challenge for
3.2.5.3 Loss of family ties and relationship
mankind. It ultimately leads to unemployment, weak human resources, weak brain power,
3.2.5.4 Loss of earning and livelihood potential
unhealthy society and increasing crime at large. The socio-economic impact is associated with the
3.2.5.5 Loss of societal respect and dignity
expenditure incurred. We need to design a policy to prevent drug abuse. We must develop a
3.2.6. Let us Sum Up
prevention strategy and we need to educate the youth and protect the human resources. The impact
3.2.7. Key words
is felt in various domains of life such as: family, industries, workplace and economy of the country.
3.2.8. Check Your Learning
According to UNDCP report, the economic effects of drug abuse can be measured in two forms,
3.2.9 Suggested Reading
i.e. cost of government drug enforcement polices and the lost human productivity such as lost wages
and decreased production that results from illness and premature deaths related to drug abuse. There
are many hidden costs relating to disturbance in social life, wastage of young energy and increased
crimes.

1
2

3.2 Objectives

Drug abuse is one of the major socio-economic problems affecting the physical and mental life
Here are five facts about drug abuse in India:
of individuals and society. Substance Abuse or Drug Abuse means an over indulgence in a drug or
1) When the Punjab state government commissioned a drug abuse study in 2015, it found that 230,000 people
other chemical substances. Addiction and use of drugs is increasing in the society day by day. This
in the state were drug users. That translated to 836 drug users per 100,000 people in the state. The All India
number is 250
leads to a per 100,000
disease (forsociety
prone 2012), according to all
and affects the aspects
Ministryof
ofhuman
Social Justice andone
life. So, Empowerment. Even the
has to understand how
figure of 250 drug abusers per 100,000 is very high when compared to other countries.
drugs are affecting the social harmony of the nation, society, individual and the world at large. This

2) Inchapter
India, will makeheroin
cannabis, you and opium are the most commonly used drugs. But there is an increasing
prevalence
 ofUnderstand
methamphetamine too.socio-economic
about the The number of users whoofinject
impact drug drugs
abusehas also gone up substantially.
There are one million heroin users registered in India according to a UN report. But unofficial estimates suggest
5 million is a truer figure.

3) According to the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India in 2019, about 2.1% of
the country’s population (2.26 crore individuals) uses opioids which include opium (or its variants like poppy
husk known as doda/phukki), heroin, and pharmaceutical opioids.

4) The national survey of 2019 also showed that about 2.8% of Indians aged 10-75 years (3.1 crore individuals)
were using cannabis as bhang, ganja and charas.

5) But what is alarming is the number of suicides due to drug abuse and alcohol addiction has more than
doubled in the last decade in India. In the year 2010, 3,343 cases of suicides were reported, and the number
increased to 7,860 suicides in 2019.

Major findings of Survey by AIIMS at National and State level:

A. Alcohol :

i. At the national level, about 14.6% of people (among 10-75 year old) are current users of alcohol, i.e.
about 16 Crore people. Prevalence is 17 times higher among men than women.
ii. Among people consuming alcohol in India, Country liquor (‘desi’) (about 30%) and spirits (IMFL –
Indian Made Foreign Liquor) (about 30%) are the predominantly consumed beverages.
iii. About 5.2% of Indians (more than 5.7 crore people) are estimated to be affected by harmful or
dependent alcohol use. In other words, every third alcohol user in India needs help for alcohol related
problems.
iv. States with the high prevalence of alcohol use are Chhattisgarh, Tripura, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh
and Goa.
v. States with high prevalence (more than 10%) of alcohol use disorders are: Tripura, Andhra Pradesh,
Punjab, Chhattisgarh, and Arunachal Pradesh.

(b) Cannabis :
 of sedatives (non-medical, non-prescription use).
i.
ii. About 2.8%the
States with of highest
Indians prevalence
(3.1 Crore individuals) report having
of current Sedative use areused any cannabis
Sikkim, Nagaland,product
Manipurwithin past
12 months
and (Bhang
Mizoram. – 2% or
However, 2.2 Pradesh,
Uttar crore people; Ganja/Charas
Maharashtra, – 1.2%
Punjab, or 1.3
Andhra Crore and
Pradesh people).
Gujarat
ii. About
are the 0.66%
top fiveofstates
Indian (or house
which approximately
the largest72populations
lakh individuals)
of peopleneed
usinghelp for their cannabis use
sedatives.
iii. problems.are the only category of substances for which the prevalence of current use among
Inhalants
iii. Though
children bhang use is more
and adolescents common
is higher thanthan
(1.17%) ganja/charas, prevalence of harmful/dependent use is
adults (0.58%).
iv. proportionately
At higheranforestimated
the national level, ganja/charas users.
4.6 lakh children and 18 lakh adults need help for their
iv. States
inhalantwith
usethe higheruse
(harmful than/ dependence).
national prevalence of cannabis use are Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Sikkim,
v. Chhattisgarh
In and Delhi.
terms of absolute numbers, states with high population of children needing help for
v. In some states
inhalant theUttar
use are: prevalence
Pradesh,of Madhya
cannabisPradesh,
use disorders is considerably
Maharashtra, higher
Delhi and (more than thrice) than
Haryana.
the national average (e.g. Sikkim, Punjab).
(e) Cocaine (0.10%) Amphetamine Type Stimulants (0.18%) and Hallucinogens (0.12%) are the
categories with lowest prevalence of current use in India.

(f) Nationally, it is estimated that there are about 8.5 Lakh People Who Inject Drugs (PWID). High
numbers of PWID are estimated in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Haryana,
Karnataka, Maharashtra, Manipur and Nagaland. Opioid group of drugs are predominantly injected by
PWID (heroin – 46% and pharmaceutical opioids – 46%). A substantial proportion of PWID report risky
injecting practices.

Access to treatment Services: In general, access to treatment services for people affected by substance
use disorders is grossly inadequate. Just about one in 38 people with alcohol dependence report
getting any treatment. Only about one in 180 people with alcohol dependence report getting inpatient
treatment / hospitalization for help with alcohol problems. Among people suffering from dependence on
illicit drugs, one among 20 people has ever received inpatient treatment/ hospitalization for help with
drug problems.

4
5

(c) Opioids :

i. At the national level, the most common opioid used is Heroin, (current use 1.14%) followed
by Pharmaceutical opioids (current use 0.96%) and then Opium (current use 0.52%).
ii. Prevalence of current use of opioids,
Key Take overall
homeisFacts
2.06% and about 0.55% of Indians are
estimated to need help for their opioid use problems (harmful use and dependence). More
 No people are dependent
single factor upon Heroin
can be identified as than Opium andtoPharmaceutical
a contributor substance use Opioids.
in society.
iii. Of the total estimated approximately 60 lakh people with opioid use disorders (harmful or
 Multipliable
dependent factors
pattern)interplay with each
in the country, moreother to bring
than half substanceby
are contributed usejust
among
a fewindividuals.
states: Uttar
Pradesh, Punjab,
 Adolescents are moreHaryana,
prone Delhi, Maharashtra,
to substance use. Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat.
iv. In terms of percentage of population affected, the top states in the country are those in the
 Genetic
north factors, mental Nagaland,
east (Mizoram, health issues, and environmental
Arunachal issues
Pradesh, Sikkim, contribute
Manipur) significantly
along to
with Punjab,
Haryana
making oneand Delhi.
prey to substance use.
 Family
(d) Sedatives anddiscords, community
Inhalants : acceptance, failures in life and academics, peer pressure, and
ganging are some of the prime reasons which propel individuals to resort to substance use.
i. About 1.08% of 10-75 year old Indians (approximately 1.18 crore people) are current users
 However, it needs to be kept in mind that substance use is a reflection of poor personality
and strong willpower can enable an individual to get out of its grip.
 Adolescents need to realise that “It is not substances that can make them their servants, but
it is individuals’ strong self-confidence and determination that can help them to fight against
substances.

3.2.2 Definition and important concepts

3.2.2.1. What is Socio-economic impact of Drug?
In simple terms socio-economic impact of drug abuse means undesirable or negative
changes in the social fabric due to drug abuse; it also includes negative economic impact on
individual, society and Government. It has many aspects. Use of drug by common people leads
to many social consequences such as – Instability in family relationship, Domestic Violence,
Crime prone life, Reduction of sense of belongingness to the family and the society. There is
also lack of social harmony and happiness within the family. On the other hand, family plays
an important role in the life of an individual. Family members have a strong bond with each
other, they support each other, face crisis together and affect the behavior and attitude of each
other. Once any member becomes a drug addict the entire family is negatively affected. The
family can play a major role in preventing drug addiction within the family. Further even if
unfortunately a member becomes a drug addict, de-addiction is impossible without the support
of the family. Doctors alone cannot cure a drug addict without the support of the family. Use
of drugs by any family member particularly the parents and the elders negatively affect the
young ones. Weak family link also reduces its influence for preventing drug abuse. It has been
found that use of drugs by elders leads to use by youngsters. Use of drugs by a family member
creates a vicious circle of drug users and its leads to a drug prone society.

Definition of Social impact

though they are
Social impact cannotbesmokers they are
both positive andforced to inhale the toxic smoke and as such can suffer
negative.
from all the above health problems. Smokers create group of smokers. They in fact create peer
pressure on their
Social impact friends as
is defined and force them to smoke. Social smokers become addicts in course of
time. Tobacco consumption leads to pre-mature death. The society has the sacred responsibility
 “Any
of promoting significant
a tobacco or positive changes that solve or at least address social injustice
free society.
and challenges”
In Odisha
 and many
Social otherhave
impacts parts in continuously
been India people bringing
consume changes
paan. Itincontains many
many parts harmful
of our lives
substances like tobacco
 Social impactsandcan
beetle nut. This
be derived is also
from manyquite harmful.
sources suchInasaddition people
business, spit and
science out
the liquid and negativelypolitics
technology, affect cleanliness.
and climateOther tobacco
changes product
etc. Say, includes
use of phonewhich
mobilegutka is very
has brought
dangerous. many social changes. A student can write 500 words on impact of mobile phones on
the society.
3.2.2.3. What is alcoholism?
Drug abuse
The worddirectly affects themeans
“alcoholism” society and destroys
addiction to the the family life.ofThus,
consumption young
alcoholic menInshould
drink. other
protect it
words, theisfamily
alcohollife by creating awareness
dependence. An addicted and preventing
alcoholic drug addiction.
is forced to drink by habit. Alcohol
addictionWhat
3.2.2.2 has aisdirect
TobaccoimpactAddiction?
over the society. Such a person starts stealing to pay for it. He
becomes a habitual liar. He hides alcohol. He loses his sense and has no control over his
TheHe
behavior. term Tobacco
even addiction
has very meansover
little control whenhis
a tobacco consumer
motor action (say has been using
walking). it for a from
He suffers long
period
frequentofirritation.
time and He cannot give
suffers up such
from use. Tobacco
increased heart rate,contains nicotine
nausea and whichAlcoholism
vomiting. is poisonous. or
Nicotineaddiction
alcohol creates dependence.
leads to many Nicotine produces
unhealthy pleasing
behaviors andeffects in theproblems.
also health brain. Though
Thereitare is
temporary in nature
physical, mental and but an problems
social addicted faced
personbyisthe
tempted
alcoholtoaddicts.
consume Theit following
again for that pleasing
problems are
effect.by
faced This addiction
alcohol cannot be easily given up. In fact, it creates dependence.
addicts.
Tobacco is the The
common name
inability tofor tobacco
control product
alcohol from several plants. They are known
intake
as “Genus Nicotiana”. More than
 Obsession 70 alcohol
with species of tobacco are available in nature. The chief
commercial crop is N Their
tabacum. It is generally used in dried form especially in cigarettes and
behavior is unacceptable to the society
cigars. There are many
 They Indian variants
socialize like
with bidi,alcohol
other nasa or snuff etc. It contains highly
sutta, addict
7
8

 Getting drunk in workplace and home

addictive stimulant which makes the person to consume it time and again. Tobacco use is
 Having frequent blackouts
highly risky for human body. It directly damages lungs, heart, liver and also leads to cancer.
 Drinking daily
Nicotine dependence effects our body. Which include:
 Negative drunken behaviors
 Lung cancer to imagine their life without alcohol
 Inability
 Variety
Usingofalcohol
cancersas the reward of life
 Heart and circulatory problems
These are the common behavioral problems of the alcohol addicts. Therefore, one should seek
 Diabetics
professional help when trying to quit their drinking habit. Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem
 Eye problem
and enjoyment lead to drinking. None of these is justified. In fact, drinks will not help to reduce
depression and lowInfertility andItimpotence
self-esteem. does more harm than good. The enjoyment part is also not
 soComplications
true. In fact, the called enjoymentduringis pregnancy
only a kick for a short time. This outbalances the
 Cold, flu and
enjoyment. There are social smokers other illness
and drinkers. Who in course of time become habitual
 Infections
drinkers and smokers?
 Hearing loss
3.2.3. Social Impact
 Chronic of drug
respiratory problem
3.2.3.1 Impact ofOsteoporosis
drug on family and community
 Dental problems
Family is theIrregular
basic unit of theof
periods society.
women The harmony of the family depends on the family
members. When one member of family becomes drug abuser then he disturbs the entire family
The tobacco
harmony. smoker
Every alsomember
family negatively affects
suffers duethe
to health of drug
a single otherabuser.
people.ItPeople
affectsliving with
the life the
style,
smokers are
behavior, periodically
personality exposed
formation to them
of the andand
children are also
known as passive
financial smokers.
condition of theInfamily.
fact, even
The
money spent on drugs can be put to better use. Amongst the poor the spending on drugs
deprives others from food. The nation also pay heavy price in terms of workforce and from
economic point of view relating to absenteeism, lack of performance and accidents at work
place are the common problems created by the drug abusers. The drug abusers show criminal
attitude in family. It ultimately breaks down the family bondage.
Parents of young drug abuser suffer a lot. Parents cannot face the child who is taking
drugs and behaves abnormally. When the younger ones observe the elders using drugs, they
wrongly assume that drug abuse is an accepted behavior. The family members ultimately
accept this with anger, fear, shame and embarrassment. Drug abuser in family generally shows
socially unacceptable behaviors, violence, aggression, irresponsibility and selfishness. Many
addicts also indulge in gambling. Drug addicts in the family affect children negatively. They
create fear amongst children. When the children grow up many of them take drugs. The
negative attention of the society also spoils child’s life. This vicious circle of parent children
becoming drug addicts must be broken. The drug addicts and their children suffer from loss of
identity, depression and low self- esteem. Only a healthy family creates a healthy society.

Domestic Violence

 Men who commit domestic violence also have problems with substance misuse
 Research indicates that up to 75% of individuals who suffer from substance use
disorder are engaged in physical assault, mugging, using a weapon to attack their
wives at home, and committing other violent crimes when prevented to take
substances
 Alcohol caused approximately 90,000 domestic violence deaths worldwide

 Alcohol or drug use is involved in 40-60% of domestic abuse situations. More than
30 percent of men are drunk at the time they commit a domestic assault, and 90
percent abuse substances on the same day, with alcohol
 More than half of the individuals who abuse their elder parents (age 60 or older)
are dependent on alcohol or drugs
 are dependent on alcohol or drugs
 Each year, about 300,000 victims of violent assaults report that their attackers were
under the influence of alcohol

Substance abuse has serious impacts on a family

 Parent’s substance abuse problem, affects child’s development. This is especially serious in
single-parent households where the children have no one else to turn to. Parents become
11
divorced from their core responsibilities toward their children and the children’s needs become
unmet. Many children fail to enjoy their childhood rights with substance-using parents. They

Key Learning Outcomes

Substance use disorders have heavy consequences for communities.

 They affect community solidarity.

 They increase crimes which is a negation to community safety. Thus, substance uses
on a mass and massive scale generates risky communities.
 Substance use leads to school dropouts and poor learning outcomes.
 They affect community health by having a repercussion on individual health.
 Heavy alcoholism and drug addiction bring violence against women.
 They create burdens on the community exchequer by demanding more police service
with personnel and jails.

They bring issues like unemployment, poverty, and hunger

3.2.3.2 Impact of Drug abuse on Health

Health is an important indicator of healthy family and society. Health is wealth. It is
wisely said that the closest friend of a person is his body. We require a body, a healthy body.
Hence every one of us has to take care of our body and mind. Healthy body and healthy mind

12

makes a person wealthy and wise. Drug abusers suffer from physical and mental illness. The
drug abusers behavior and food habits are not acceptable. Their immunity condition or ability
to fight diseases are low. The continuous use of any drug destroys brain cells and leads to other
physical problems. The physical effect of drugs varies as per the chemical property. All types
of drugs have side effects. In fact, drug abuse leads to ill health. The damage to health depends
on the followings factors:

 Drug intake quantity

 Drug type
 Period of drug use
 Amount of drug consumption
 Channel of drug use
 Alternant use in drug
 High risk chemicals in the drug
The survey report by Fischer in 1994 revealed that every year approximately 2, 00,000 deaths
occur all over the world as a result of drug abuse. Over dose and long use of drugs leads to
risky and abnormal behavior. Adulteration and use of chemicals in drugs cause severe health
problem. In fact, the body system weakened with the impact of drugs. Abstain from drug use,
the drug abuser behaves madly and creates disturbances. So, it is evident that the drug has
direct effect over the health and body system. The drug makes the person feel better, confident,
free from anxiety, stress and worries. Subsequently after continuous use a stage will come it
will not give any pleasure to the body and the drug abuser is not able to stop taking the drug
rather addicted. The drug abuser requires it on regular basis. It directly affects the central
nervous system of the body and results in weak cognitive functioning of the brain. It results in
untimely death of the abuser.
3.2.3.3 Impact of Drug on Education
Drug abusers are irregular in attending college and university. They lose concentration
and learning ability. Drugs negatively affect their performance in examination. Yet education
is the only medium through which the society can be developed and enriched. It is generally
believed that education and awareness is an important tool of intervention for prevention of
drug abuse. To prevent the negative impact of drug abuse, preventative education should be
 g p g p g ,p
providedDrug abuselevel
at every has aoftremendous
educationalimpact onPreventative
system. workforce. Young people
education is anormally pick which
slow process up the
bad habit of drug consumption between the age group of 15 to 35. Sometimes unemployment
will produce
leads to drug positive results. There
abuse. Frustrated youngisand
no shortcut solution
even older peopletowho
the lose
problem.
their job become addicts.
The reverse
Drugisand
alsoalcohol
true. Those
abusewho
arebecome
importantdrug addicts lose
problems which their job and
affects theremain unemployed.
education of young
It is evident
mass. Many that there isrealized
educators a strongthat
relation between
drug and unemployment
alcohol abuse amongst andstudents
drug taking habits. As
are significant
per British
barriers Crime
to the Survey of
achievement Report 1992 the
educational life timeThe
objectives. prevalence
fact is thatofschool
drug and
abuse amongdon’t
colleges the
unemployed
have the powerwasto 60% higher than
stop smoking, among
alcohol the employed.
drinking and sex orThe
otherrecent survey
abuse. TheybycanInternational
only create
Labor Organization
awareness, educate the(ILO) and the
students Europeans
about Commission
the prevention finds
process anddrug
alsoand
try alcohol
to controlabuse in the
students’
workplace negatively
activities. One must thinkaffects productivity.
about the role ofThe organizations
teachers, parents and werementors
forced totoprevent
dismissdrug
the
addicted
addictionemployees.
among theThe effect or
students of young
drug is mass.
also reflected
The youngin thegeneration
performance of workforce.
should be trainedDrug
and
abuses in the workforce impose heavy costs in different service sectors.
motivated to lead a healthy life and create a healthy society, free from drug abuses. They are reducing the
competiveness and performance of the organization. The drug abusers suffering from ill-health
and beingTheinhealth problem
disciplined haveoflow
the performance.
drug abusers initially
They areaffects the individuals,
less productive and addhimself, thenof
to the cost it
affect the family
production. Unableandtofinally
performthewell
society
theyincreate
general. The costpressure
additional of the drug is high
on their colland it involves
eagues. In this
a heavy everyone
process price. Most of the times the user is not able to pay for it. And as such it becomes a
suffers.
13
14

3.2.3.6. Impact of Drug on Environment

strain on individual and family finances. De-addiction treatment will also involve a cost.
Generally Drugthe addict develops
production other environment.
impacts health issues discussed earlier whichdamage
The environmental involvesfound
an expensive
in any
country
treatment. willThedepend
publiconhealth
the specific
systemrolein of thatiscountry
India alreadyinsuffering
producingfromillicitresource
drugs. Opium
crunch.poppy
This
cultivation
additional cost takesis place in on
a strain forest areas.
public Thesystem.
health traditionalIt isslash
like and burn system
a vicious is used sharing
circle. Needle by the hill
by
tribes to cultivate
drug users leads topoppy
AIDS plants.
and otherThis results The
diseases. in clearing
young massof large
whoforest areas. The
are addicts mustreduction
understand of
forest area is of
the ill impact a environmental
drug on health threat.
and seek Production
consultationof opium and other
with doctors drugs
to save from
their ownthese
life. plant
ingredients creates toxic waste. These wastes are not scientifically disposed. Mostly untreated
3.2.3.4
toxic wasteImpact of Drug
is released intoontheCrime
environment. The studies conducted by USA Government find
that “Cocaine
Crime processors
and drug are in the
likeAndean
two sidesregion
of a each
single year
coindump
and into the water,
are related. someproduction,
Illegal 10 million
liters of Sulfuric
distribution, Acid, 16 procurement
possession, million liters of Ethyl
and Ether, 8 million
consumption litersdrug
of illicit of Acetone
result and from 40
in criminal
to 70 million
offences. Drug liters of Kerosene.
related These chemical
crime includes traffickingwastes lead violent
of drugs, to acuteconflicts,
poisoningmurder,
of water. These
robbery
reduce the oxygen
and violent level among
competition in waterrivals
and also reduce fertilityand
for manufacturing of soil. The fishes
marketing drugs.and other
Data fromaquatic
1975
animals
to 1989 become
proves that poisonous. Consumption
drug related crimes are of the
fishfastest
from such watercrimes.
growing causes health
The drugproblems.
abusersTheare
major
generallyconcern
involved is restoring forests
in criminal and stopping
activities. These are thefour
illicit drug
kinds of cultivation
crime related andto protection
drug abuseof
water resources.
 Crime committed by drug abuser to obtain drugs
 Crime committed by drug peddlers/suppliers
 Crime by drug business owners to protect their business
 Financial crimes like money laundering, robbery, and murder for money
 Crime is the illegal manufacture and trade of drugs

Drug and crimes go together. A total drug free nation can be thought off, if the young
mass will create a movement of not touching drugs. There is a global concern to prevent drug
consumption. Every nation has started working on this front. The process begins with educating
the young and spreading awareness about the ill effect of drugs. Prohibition laws and rules are
the legal tools to protect the society but this is not enough. Freedom from drug will be a dream
until we create awareness and a movement against the drugs. The young must realize that their
life is the most valuable gift of God and meant for good of the society, nation and mankind.
Let us work together to prevent drugs and promote a crime free society.
3.2.3.5 Impact of Drug on Employment and Productivity

15

Do you Know?
 The carbon emissions caused by growing a single ounce of cannabis indoors have the same
environmental impact as burning 7 to 16 gallons of gas. They require powerful lights,
temperature control, humidity control, and other energy-consuming care. Wherever greater
temperature control is necessary, greenhouse gas emissions are higher. For instance, drastic
temperature increases are necessary for growing cannabis in Alaska or the Midwest. Similarly,
within a single year, approximately 15 million metric tons of carbon dioxide are emitted in the
United States as the result of indoor cannabis production, equivalent to the annual emissions of 3
million cars.
 Water depletion due to heavy use is another major environmental impact of cannabis cultivation.
Cannabis crops require a lot of water. It ranges between 8-10 gallons per plant, per day. This
amount is almost double as much as a grape or tomato plant needs. In 2012, over three billion
gallons of water were used to cultivate cannabis in California alone. When water stress is on the
rise, the cultivation of such plants becomes detrimental to water resources and humanity.
 Drug traffickers clear the forest space necessary for drug plantations. They use them for coca
and palm production. The greatest threat opium processing poses is illegal logging and
widespread deforestation to clear the land required for the cultivation. And wherever a critical
mass of forest gets removed, the surrounding areas become more susceptible to drought, erosion,
landslides and flooding. In other words, the land becomes uninhabitable to humans and a wide
variety of animals, too. They also go for deforestation for transporting, storing, and processing
drugs. This becomes a strong contributor to climate change. Unregulated forest clearing for
illicit substances is a major issue with long-term implications. In Colombia, coca growers clear
remote sections of the nation’s rainforest for plantations and the production of cocaine. It is
estimated that per year, carbon emissions from forests cleared for coca could be as much as two
million tons.

 Illegal drug production leads to the disposal of waste. The fertilizers, rodenticides, pesticides,
and chemical compounds used by the producers to have a bumper crop This issue is commonly
noted in South America, the Netherlands, and Belgium. The open disposal of the chemicals used
in drug industries wreaks havoc on local wildlife.
 Finally drug production has affected biodiversity in multiple ways in the countries where they
 Finally, drug production has affected biodiversity in multiple ways in the countries where they
 Controlling the numbers of sale outlets in specific areas
areTime
produced.
restriction on opening and closing of the shop
 Strict policy for the specific age group
 Accountability of the drug seller
 Provision for treatment of drug abusers
Drug abuse
 Massive has direct
awareness effectamong
programs on public health and
the students and safety. It hampers
in alcohol the peaceful
prone areas
development
These are the and smoothsteps
preventive functioning of the
which will society.
reduce the coThe
st ofsafety of the of
expenditure society is negatively
the government.
affected as drug abuse leads to crimes (as explained earlier). Even road safety is compromised
due to addiction. Most of the road accidents occur due to consumption of alcohol and drugs.

16
Key Learning Outcomes

Substance use disorders have heavy consequences for the economy

 It entails the loss of productivity of the working population

Drug consumers as drivers are a threat on the roads. Pedestrian drug consumers are also victims
of accidents. In work place (i.e. factories, offices and hospitals etc.) drug abuse leads to
accidents and other unfortunate incidents. Even in home an intoxicated person may cause fire
and their action leads to accidents. All these involve a high cost for the individual, family,
society and the State.
The maintenance of safety measures costs heavily to the government. And
understanding of the economic costs of drug abuse is required to develop policies, rules and
regulations. An estimation of costs for implementation of policies to prevent drug supply to
market, development of safety protocols and controlling the drug peddlers is highly essential.
Lot of public resources are wasted in containing drug abuse. This money could be diverted to
economic development provided there is no drug abuse. It is a challenge for everyone to ensure
public safety and smooth functioning of the society by containing drug abuse.
3.2.4.2. Impact of Drug on Governance
3.2.5 Impact of Drug and Tobacco addiction and Alcoholism
All over the world the Governments find it difficult to implement the rules and laws
relating Loss
3.2.5.1 to drug
ofabuses. Corrupt
Physical and officials at all levels of law enforcement throughout the world
mental strength
make it difficult to implement laws. Political patronage and muscle power of drug mafia
Drug
hampersabusers generally face
implementation of physical
laws. Inand mental
some problems.
countries The effect
the drug mafiaofare
drugs
so on the body
strong even
depends on the types of drug used, types of chemical compounds used in the drug and quantity
politicians are not able to govern the country. Illegal cultivation, drug trafficking and such
consumed by the abuser. If the drug abuser uses the drug on everyday basis then it also affects
other activities are not easily controlled by governments. The financial implication is a burden
the person’s
on the brain and
government. body. The
In nutshell thespecific physical
government effects
incurs lot ofofexpenditure
drug use may
onvary from individual
the following heads:
to individual. The physical effects are of two types: 1) Long term physical effect 2) Short term
 Regulating
physical effect the drug consumption
 Drug abusers treatment
1. The long term physical effect of drugs are
 Rehabilitation centers
 Absenteeism at work place
 Changes in body part coordination
 Poor and unhealthy work force
 Blood pressure and heart rate changes
 Training centers for professionals
 Heart stroke, liver disease and pancreatitis
 Substance abuse data base preparation
 Pain relief and relaxation
 Protecting the public
 Feeling either sleepy or over excited
 Deployment of human resources for the public safety
 Changes in the appearance of a person’s body
 Operating counseling centers
 Drug dependency at a particular time
The economic Weakened
 impact immune
of drug system
abuses can be reduced by the following steps:
 Various
 Increasing tax onkinds of cancer
drugs
 Digestive
 Preventative problem
measures and strict policies

2. The short term physical effects of drugs are

The drug use causes short term physical effects.

Consumption Consumption of Consumption of Consumption Consumption

of alcohol methamphetamines Cocaine of Tobacco of Heroin
and Nicotine

18

Lack of Increased body Increased body Increased Dry Mouth

coordination of movement and temperature blood pressure
body movement physical activity
High rate of Decreased appetite Increased heart rate Increased Itching
heart beat breathing
Changes of the Increased rate of Headache Increased Nausea
skin and face breathing Heart Rate
Dizziness Irregular heart rate Abdominal pain and Vomiting
nausea

Nausea and Increased blood Erratic and Violent Slow breathing

vomiting pressure behavior rate
Partial comma Increased body Heart Attack and
stage temperature Stroke
Lack of Increased body
coordination of movement and
body movement physical activity

These are the short term physical effect of drug on the body. If the consumption of the drugs
continues by the drug abuser then the life of the consumer will be at risk and ultimately leading
to death.
Mental effects of drug abuse
Alcohol, Cannabis and various stimulants are psychoactive drugs. They have direct
impact on individual’s brain function and structure. The effects on the mind of the drug abuser
vary from person to person and depend on the type of drug used by the abuser and duration of
use. Mental illness is the major disorder caused due to drug consumption.
The common mental illness due to drug consumption is:
 The short term mental effects of drugs are:
1. Consumption of alcohol-
 Anxiety
 Irritability
2. Consumption of Cannabis-
 Feeling of relaxation
 Anxiety
 Irritability
3. Consumption of Heroin-
 Euphoria
 Restlessness

 The Long term mental effects of drugs are:

1 Consumption of alcohol
 1. Consumption of alcohol-
3.2.5.3 Loss of Family ties and Relationship
 Depression
The drug abusers are slowly detached from their fellow members. Due to addiction the
 Anxiety
drunkard parents neglect their children and don’t care for them. As a result the children feel
 Learning
emotionally and physically and memory
neglected problem
and unsafe. Children also become mentally unstable and
they lose their trust on their parents. They feel very guilty and ashamed of their parents
19
20

behavior. The effects of drug are so harmful that it destroys the peaceful and loving relationship
Social problem
between the familymembers. Conflict becomes a regular issue. There will be no trust between
the family members.  ItAbnormal
is assessedbehavior
that one child out of five have one parent addicted to alcohol
Attitudinal
or some other drug. Children whochange
grow up in such a family are likely to become drug addicts
2. Consumption of methamphetamines-
themselves. They also become afraid of their addicted parent. The bonding of the parents with
 Anxiety
children slowly breaks up. It also leads to an isolated life for the drug abuser. The addicted
person becomes alone Confusion
and there is no attachment with children, wife and other relatives of the
 Insomnia
family. Addiction results in broken relationship, conflict, isolated life and loneliness.
 Mood swings
3.2.5.4 Loss of Earning and Livelihood Potentials
 Violent behavior
Hallucinations
The familydepends on the earning of the head of the family. The income which comes
in terms of salary, wage or remuneration is used to fulfill the needs of the family members. If
the head of 3.
the Consumption
family will beof a drug addict
Tobacco then
and a major portion of income will be spent on the
Nicotine-
purchase of drugs.A drug abuser, attention
Irritability never thinks aboutproblems
and sleep the need of the children, future of the
children, educational
 expenses,
Depression health expenses of the children and also never takes care of the
spouse. He 4.cannot even saveofthe
Consumption money for future requirement i.e. marriage of the children,
Cannabis-
settlement during retirement
 Mentallife etc.problems
health In this way he loses the livelihood earning ability. His
potential for earning
 slowly decreases and he can’t control his spending on alcohols/drugs.
Irritability
Ultimately he loseshisLack
earning and
of sleep livelihood potential.
 Anxiety
Interesting Observation
The body is affected by the drugs in different ways. It varies from person to person. The short
A study, carried out by the international labour organisation (ILO) and the European
term and long term effects of drug directly affects the body system and weakens the mental
Commission,
strength. on the
Once the effects
body gets ofaddicted
drug abuse
withand
anyalcohol
of the abuse in the workplace
drug substance then theindrug
European
controls
your mind, thought
countries, andperformance
found that actions. Drugimpairments
dependenceandimmediately affects
absences from the are
work psychological
the commonand
physical
resultshealth.
of drugItand
is very important
alcohol to noteemployees.
abuse among that there isIn
noapproximately twoItout
safe use of drug. affects thecases,
of five body’s
central nervous system and it controls how you think, feel and behave etc. Subsequently the
organizations were forced to dismiss employees for drug and alcohol-related reasons.
body is not at all in a condition to prevent any disease. So, the drug abusers will lose the mental
and physical strength to fight any disease.

3.5.2.2 Loss
3.2.5.5 Loss of
of Societal
CharacterRespect and Dignity
Every
Societyindividual is identified
is a platform where everyand recognized
individual for hisabehavior,
leads life with personality,
respect and attitude
dignity. and
He
character. If the and
gets his identity addiction
leads aaffects his self-esteem.
life with life then theSperson will losegive
ociety doesn’t his respect
identitytoindrug
the society.
abusers
The drunkards.
and addiction They
affectsarelife in welcome
never many ways. It damages
to a group health, professional
and its activities. and becomes
The drug abuser personal
relationship,
alone career and
and maintains personal
a detached life.finances.
When there Prolong
is noedfriend
addiction
circle,destroys
no socialthe image of and
interactions the
individual because during
no social gatherings the drugthe abuser
addiction stage his
becomes alone mind
andand
he body will friend
becomes be under the control
of drugs of
or other
drugs.abusers.
drug Your valuable timehe
In this way will be spent
loses only at in
his position drinking
society.orNobody
using drugs.
caresThis will
about hisdamage
presenceyour
or
social relationship, happiness of the family and slowly you will lose your identity
respects him. Drug abuse affects the social life, physical, mental, financial and professional life as a person.
You
as will only be identified as a drunkard or drug addict. People around you will never accept
a whole.
you and they will also remain away from you. In this way you are no more identified as a social
3.2.6
person Let
or anusaccepted
Sum upperson of the society.
 Objectives
o Understand the socio-economic impact of drug abuse
o Appreciate how drug addiction affects the social and individual life
o Enable you to identify the economic loss due to drug abuse

21

 Drug abuse has become major social issue in India and the world. Drug abuse
negatively impacts physical and mental health, economy and society. It affects
individual , family, society , state and mankind
 Economic impact of drug abuse included
o Loss of income and impoverishment of the individual and his failure to take
care of his family
o Heavy expenditure on the part of the Society, State for control of drug
production and distribution. It also leads to spending on Public Health,
Education and Awareness Program to contain the use of drugs
 Social impact of drug abuse is immeasurable. Drug abusers destroy family bond, social
fabric and peace and prosperity of the society
 Drug abuse results in loss of wealth and health
 Drug abuse is directly and indirectly connected with physical and mental health. Illness
connected with drug includes various kinds of cancer, respiratory problems, complexity
in pregnancy. Loss of hearing, low fertility, osteoporosis and dental problems etc.
Drugs reduces the immunity and abusers are easily infected.
 Drug abuse leads to problems of metal health like loss of concentration, increased
anxiety, hyper activism, depression, hallucination, irritation, low self-esteem, psycho-
social isolation, insomnia, mood swings and violent behavior
 Education alone can create awareness and promote a prevention strategy
 States and international bodies need to developed a drug free strategy. All country must
come together to prevent illegal production and distribution of drugs, built a robust
health care infrastructure to rehabilitate drug abusers, create and manage a strong police
system to prevent drug related crime. States should also take affirmative action to
prevent drug abuse
 The drug abuser loses social respect, dignity and ability to take care of his family. He
loses his livelihood. The NGOs and social activism can tackle this problem.
 Drug production, distribution and abuse endanger life and property of citizens. Gang
wars are common in mega cities for control of drug business. There are examples of
drug mafia controlling cities and even countries. This can be tackled only by honest
officers, judiciary and politicians.
 Drug production also pollutes the environment

 In a nutshell the following points are our concern

 Impact of drugs on social life
 Problems faced by family
 Professional difficulties due to drug addiction
 Conceptual knowledge on drug and tobacco addiction
 Meaning of alcoholism
 Types of effects due to drug consumption
 Personal and professional loss due to drug addiction
 Economic impact of drugs in society and business
 Family suffering due to drug consumption

3.2.7 Key words

 Drug Abuser- The illegal use of drugs by a person
 22
23

a) Define drug abuse and discussed the social impact of drug.

 Drug Addiction- It means a chronic disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking
b) What is tobacco addiction and how it impact on health?
 Social Impact- As any significant or positive changes that solve or at least address
c) Explain about the economic impact of drug.
social injustice and challenges
d) What are the types of drug and discussed in impact on health?
 Economic Impact- A financial effect that something happen due to new products, new

changes in policy on any situation

3.2.9 Suggested Reading
 Tobacco- A preparation of the Nicotine – rich leaves of plants used for smoking
 “The social impact of drug abuse” UNDCP, a position paper for world summit for social
and chewing.
development, Number 2, Copenhagen, 6-12 march , 1995
 Socio – Economic Impact- It refers to the factors such as income, education, employment
 “Drugs and Social Context” by Springer
social support and community satisfy will significantly affect
 Anil Agarwal, Narcotic Drugs, National Book Trust, New Delhi, 1995
day to day life.
 UNDCP Regional office for South Asia, Drug Demand Reduction Report, New Delhi 1999
 Mental health- It refers to the emotional , psychological and social wellbeing
 Singh Gumeet, “ Alcoholism in India”, in Asia and D.A. Desouza(ed) Psychiatry in India,
3.2.8 Check your learning
Bhalani Book Depot, Bombay, PP- 240-251,1984
Q.1. Answer in two or three sentences
a) Drug
b) Drug addiction
c) Socio economic impact
d) Impact of drug on health
e) Impact of drug on family
f) Tobacco addiction
g) Alcoholism
h) Drug peddlers
i) Impact of drug on profession
j) Drug abuser
Q.2. Answer in 50 words
a) What is drug addiction and how it affects the health?
b) Differentiate between tobacco addiction and alcoholism.
c) Outline the behavioral characteristics of drug abuser.
d) Mention the physical difficulties due to drug addiction.
e) What is the long term effect of drug on health?
f) Explain the causes of drug addiction.
g) What are the effects of cocaine on health?
h) How drug addiction affects the workplace enrollment?
i) Differentiate between social and economic impact of drug.
j) What are symptoms of drug abuser?

Q.3. Answer in 250 words

24

3.3 Laws to Address Substance Abuse

3.3.0 Objective

3.3.1 Introduction

3.3.2 Convention held relating to substance use

3.3.2.1 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961 Amended in 1972

3.3.2.2 The Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971
3.3.2.3 United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and
Psychotropic Substances of 1988
3.3.2.4 The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)

3.3.3. Indian Laws relating to Substance Use

3.3.4 Salient Features of social legislation to NDPS Act, 1985

3.3.5 Salient Features of Social legislation on COTPA, 2003

3. 3.5.1 National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP)

3.3.6 Mechanism and Government Scheme
3. 3.6.1 Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan
3.3.6.2 Rehabilitation Centres and their roles for De-addiction

3.3.7 Let Us Sum Up

3.3.8 Key words
3.3.9 Check Your Learning
3.3.10 Suggested Reading

1
  Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs,1961 Amended in 1972.
 The Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971.
3.3.0 Objective
 United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and
After reading the unitSubstances
Psychotropic you will be of
able to
1988.
TheUnited
Know Nations Conference
about features for theAct,
of NDPS Adoption of COTPA
1995 and a Single Act,
Convention
2003 in on Narcotic Drugs
details
BecomeNations
metat United aware Headquarters
of various fromGovt.24 schemes
January tofor
25 preparation, de-addiction
March 1961 with and
seventy-three
rehabilitation
nations represented in the Conference including India. The provisions laid down by this
 Help your friends to take professional help for becoming free from drugs and alcohol
Convention
abuseunderwent an amendment in 1972.
 Sensitize your immediate friend circle and community on issues of drug , tobacco and
3.3.2.2 The Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971
alcohol
The second major convention is named as “The Convention on Psychotropic
3.3.1 Introduction
Substances of 1971”. It is a United Nations treaty designed to control psychoactive
Substance use has long been recognized as a social malady. Since then, efforts have
drugs such as amphetamine-type stimulants, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and psychedelics.
been made by the international community to prevent its use. The attempt to control drug use
This treaty was signed in Vienna, Austria on 21 February 1971. This treaty was signed by 34
dates back to the period of the Second World War. As early as the mid-1920s attempts in this
original signatories to bring into the ambit of control many of the newly discovered
direction started at the international level. The International Opium Convention and the
psychotropics which were not covered by the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961.
International Convention pertaining to Dangerous Drugs (1925), set standard limits on
It came into force on 16 August 1976.
addictive drugs like cocaine and opium and its derivatives. These Conventions were
organized by the League of Nations prior to World War II. However, the lists of compounds
The Convention
were set down in the treaties' text. In orderontoPsychotropic
keep up withSubstances of 1971
advancements in chemistry, it
became a requirement to periodically alter or replace the conventions by enacting new
treaties.
 The
This United Stateslaid
Convention Commissioner
stress on the of Narcotics
health 1954 realized
and welfare that state-by-state
of mankind.
ratification
 If of such proclamation
a Party or the Worldmay take Organization
Health many decades.has information relating to a
substance not yet under international control which in its opinion may require the
3.3.2 Convention held relating to substance use
addition of that substance to any of the Schedules of this Convention, it shall notify
3.3.2.1 Single Convention on Narcotic
the Secretary-General Drugs,
and furnish 1961the
him with Amended in 1972
information in support of that
Bynotification.
the decision 689 J (XXVI) of 28 July 1958, the Economic and Social Council of
the United Nationsall
 Prohibit agreed to Psychotropic
use of convene a convention in line
Substances, with Article
except 62, paragraph
for scientific 4, limited
and very of the
United Nations
medicalCharter and with
purposes the authorized
by duly terms of thepersons,
General Assembly
in medicalresolution 366 (IV) of 3
or scientific
to put a check on the use which
establishments of narcotic drugs. Inunder
are directly line with this decision,
the control a meeting
of their was held
governments or in
Decemberspecifically
1949 to adopt a singlebyagreement
approved them. on narcotics to replace the existing multilateral
field treaties
 Thewith a single
parties instrument.
that need This instrument
to manufacture, trade,was
andintended to control
distribute narcotics and
such substances for
to establish guidelines
medical forfor
use or theany
management of the production
other purposes need to getoflicenses
raw materials
under for illicit
strict drugs.
supervision
This became the first all-embracing exhaustive proclamation relating to the control of
and conditions.
substance use. There are three important conventions relating to drugs at the international
level. They are:
3
2

3.3.2.3 United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and
Psychotropic Substances of 1988
The landmark convention against drug trafficking was passed in 1988. It is popularly
known as the United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and
Psychotropic Substances, 1988. This was the first international proclamation that took into
consideration the ethical degradation that a society experiences due to substance abuse. The
Convention was adopted by the United Nations Conference for the Adoption of a Convention
against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, held in Vienna from 25
November to 20 December 1988. The 1988 Convention was introduced following the socio-
political developments in the 1970s and 1980s. The opening of the national borders with the
process of deterritorialization following the call for globalization resulted in the free trade of
illicit drugs and there was a drastic increase in the demand for cannabis, cocaine, and heroin.
The countries' youth population became the drug marketers' easy targets. There started an
internationalization of the drug trade giving birth to the world’s multi-billionaires on the one
hand and drug-related morbidity and mortality on the other. The parties to this convention
expressed their concern on the magnitude of and rising trend in the illicit production of,
demand for, and traffic in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, which pose a serious
threat to the health and welfare of human beings and adversely affect the economic, cultural
and political foundations of society.

3.3.2.4 The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)

It is the first international agreement pertaining to public health in the modern era signed
on 21 May 2003. It entered into force on 27 February 2005. It is also the first convention to
be negotiated under the World Health Organization's supervision (WHO). More than 180
WHO member states have ratified the convention, which was originally signed by 168 of the
192 WHO members. The FCTC outlines specific steps for governments in order to address
tobacco use and provides an internationally coordinated response to the tobacco epidemic.
These steps include:

 Adopting tax and price measures to reduce tobacco consumption

 Banning tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship
 Establishing smoke-free workplaces and public areas
 Prominently labeling tobacco products with health warnings

 Preventing the sale of tobacco goods illegally

 Do You Know?
3.3.3 Indian Laws relating to Substance Use
 Indian drug policy has its roots in Article 47 of the Indian Constitution.
 In 47
Art. India, as that
states we the
have discussed
"State shouldsubstance
endeavourabuse is on
to bring riseprohibition
about among theofyouth.
the consumption
Particularly of intoxicating
college students and school beverages and
children are of narcotics
becoming which are
vulnerable harmful use
to substance
to health, except for therapeutic purposes."
today. Drug abuse has emerged as a serious concern, adversely affecting the physical and
 It also spells out that it is the responsibility of the state to ensure social security
socio-economic
and justicewell-being of the by
to the citizens future working population
enumerating of the
duties of the country.
state which The
are epidemic of
important for achieving the goal of a better society, and it includes better
drug abuse in younger generation has assumed alarming dimensions in India. Studies
conditions of living, access to healthy and nutritious food and public health
establish
andthat the share of the young population, basically the college students, is mounting
hygiene.
day byIt day.
is founded on Gandhian
Addiction principles.
to alcohol/drugs affects the young masses involved, ruins their
 Thus, the Constitution explicitly mandates that states need to take action to
families, and proves detrimental to society. From becoming productive human resources,
prevent or reduce or stop the consumption of injurious drinks or drugs.
they become parasitic human resources for society.

Alarming Facts and Figures Relating to Substance Use Among Indian Students
3.3.4 Salient Features of social legislation to NDPS Act, 1985
 According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) 2018 survey on drug
The
use first
among ever
the Act against
general illicit drugs
population, andofPsychotropic
the extent Substances
drug use among youngsterswas enacted
remains in
higher
than thatwas
India in 1985.It of older
namedpeople.
as the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985
 Most
(NDPS). Untilresearchers
this periodsuggest that early
Cannabis (12-14 years
was legally sold old)
andtowere
late (15-21years
commonly old)
usedadolescence is
in India for
a critical risk period for the initiation of substance use and that substance use may peak
recreational purposes. As India was a signatory to the International Conventions on narcotic
among young people aged 18-25 years.
drugs and psychotropic substances of 1961 and 1971 respectively, it was mandated for the
 Nearly 18 lakh children need help with inhalant use.
government to eliminate the ethnically deep-seated use of Cannabis. So, on 14 November
 It is estimated that about 8.5 lakh people are injecting drugs (PWID – people who inject
1985, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act was enacted which banned all
drugs) most of whom admit to having started the habit around the age of 17.
narcotic drugs in India.
 5.2% of college students are addicted to alcohol.
The NDPS Act prohibits cultivation, production, possession, sale, purchase, trade,
import, export, use and consumption of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances except for
India is a signatory to all the international Conventions on Substance use. It has signed the
medical and scientific purposes.
Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961, as amended by the 1972 Protocol, the
Conventions on Psychotropic
This social legislation Substances, 1971 and
is trying to control thethe United
menace of Nations Single
drug abuse Convention
in the country.
againstAct
This Illicit Traffictoinconsolidate
intends Narcotic Drugs
and and Psychotropic
amend the law Substances,
relating to 1988. As such
narcotic drugs,thetocountry
make
has tried to
stringent enunciatefor
provisions its the
owncontrol
domestic
andlaws to fightof
regulation against substance
operations use. to
relating In narcotic
the following
drugslines
and
details on Indian
psychotropic laws have been brought into discussion.
substances.
This Act says that it extends to the whole of India and it applies also to,
(a) All citizens of India outside India;
(b) All persons on ships and aircrafts registered in India, (wherever they may be)

5
6

This Act defines an “addict” as a person who has a dependence on any narcotic drug or
psychotropic substance.
This Act provides for committees at both the Central and State level.
The NDPS Act lays down the procedure for search, seizure, and arrest of persons in
public and private places detected to have been involved in drug or substance production,
marketing, and use. Under the Act, it is illicit for a person to produce or
manufacture/cultivate, possess, sell, purchase, transport, store, and/or consume any
narcotic drug or psychotropic substance. The Narcotics Control Bureau was set up under the
NDPS Act with effect from March 1986. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is the chief
law enforcement and intelligence agency of India vested with the responsibility to fight drug
against trafficking and the abuse of illegal substances. It was created on 17 March 1986 to
enable the full implementation of the NDPS Act and fight its infringement. In 1988, the
NDPS Act was supplemented by the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and
Psychotropic Substances Act to provide for preventive detention of people suspected or
accused of involvement in drug trafficking.

The Act also prescribes the constitution of The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances
Consultative Committee. The provisions laid down for such a committee are as follows.
 The Central Government may constitute, by notification in the Official Gazette, an
advisory committee to be called “The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances
Consultative Committee” to advise the Central Government on such matters relating
to the administration of this Act as are referred to it by the Government from time to
time
 The Committee shall consist of a Chairman and such other members, not exceeding
twenty, as may be appointed by the Central Government
 The Committee shall meet when required to do so by the Central Government and
shall have power to regulate its own procedure
 The Committee may, if it deems it necessary for the efficient discharge of any of its
functions, constitute one or more sub-committees and may appoint to any such sub-
committee, whether generally or for the consideration of any particular matter, any
person (including a non-official) who is not a member of the Committee
 The term of office the Chairman and other members may be decided by the Central
Government. The manner of filling casual vacancies in the offices of and the
allowances, if any, payable to, the Chairman and other members of the Committee,
and the conditions and restrictions subject to which the Committee may appoint a

person who is not a member of the Committee as a member of any of its sub-
committees, shall be such as may be prescribed by rules made by the Central
Government.
There shall also be special officers appointed at the State level for the proper implementation
of this Act
of this Act.
The first International treaty on Tobacco Control
3.3.5 Salient Features of social legislation on COTPA, 2003
Not only in India, use of Tobacco been a big killer all over the world. Unfortunately
The Indian Parliament passed the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition
our young mass gets into this habit mostly which spoils their life, lifestyle and all future
of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and
plans. The useBill
Distribution) of Tobacco
in April and
2003.itsThis
innumerable adverse
Bill became impacts
an Act on May
on 18 human2003
civilisation
and thishas
is
been one of
popularly the important
known as COTPA.concerns
COTPAat has
the been
International
enforcedlevel
fromas1 well.
May WHO
2004. Framework
The Act is
Convention
applicable toon
all Tobacco Control (WHO
products containing FCTC)
tobacco in anyisform,
the first international
and extends to the treaty
whole negotiated
of India.
under the auspices of World Health Organisation. There are currently 181 Parties to the
The key provisions of COTPA -2003
Convention. It was adopted by the World Health Assembly on 21 May 2003 and entered into
 Prohibition of smoking in public places (educational institutions, restaurants, malls,
force on 27 February 2005. It has since become one of the most rapidly and widely embraced
bus stops, workplaces etc.). This has been implemented from 2nd October 2008 in the
treaties in United Nations history.
whole of India.- Section-4
BanFCTC
TheWHO of all forms of direct and
was developed indirect advertisements
by countries in response to of
thetobacco products-
globalization Section-5
of the tobacco
 Prohibition
epidemic. It aims tooftackle
sales to minors
some (tobacco
of the causesproducts cannot be including
of that epidemic, sold to orcomplex
by the children
factors
less-border
with cross than 18effects,
years such
of age
as and
tradecannot be soldand
liberalization within a radius
direct foreignofinvestment,
100 yardstobacco
of any
educational institutions)- Section-6
advertising, promotion and sponsorship beyond national borders, and illicit trade in tobacco
 Regulation of health warning in tobacco products packs. English and one more Indian
products. The preamble to the Convention shows how countries viewed the need to develop
language are to be used for health warnings on tobacco packs. Pictorial health
such an international legal instrument.
warnings are also to be included. Section-7
 Regulation
Governmentand
of testing of tar and
India ratified the nicotine contents ofConvention
WHO Framework tobacco products and declaring
on Tobacco Control
on tobacco
(WHO FCTC) products
in 2004, packages.
the first ever international public health treaty focusing on the global
public health issue of tobacco control. WHO-FCTC provides for various measures to reduce
Smoking in public places was banned under COTPA, on 2nd October, Gandhi Jayanti, 2008.
the demand as well as supply of tobacco. India played a leading role in FCTC negotiations to
finalize its provisions
These public and was
places include the regional
cinemas, coordinator
auditoriums, for thepublic
hospitals, South-transport
East Asian countries.
(aircraft, buses,
trains, metros, taxis), and their related facilities, (Bus stands, railway stations and airports),
restaurants, amusement centres, pubs, bars, offices (Government and private), libraries,
courts, shopping malls, markets, refreshment rooms, post offices, banquet halls, coffee
houses, educational institutions and parks. However, smoking in airports, restaurants, some
enclosed work places, pubs and bars is allowed if they provide a separate designated place for
smoking.

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9

The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and

There is a penalty for smoking in public places
Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act,
First conviction- Will lead up to two years imprisonment or with fine which can extend to
COTPA, 2003
Rs.1000. Subsequent conviction is - Up to Five years imprisonment or with fine which can
extend to Rs.5000.
This Act was enunciated in 2003. The Act repealed The Cigarettes (Regulation of
Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 1975. The very purpose was to prohibit the
advertisement of and regulate the trade and commerce in, and production, supply, and
distribution of cigarettes and other tobacco products in India. The 39th Assembly held in
1986 urged the member states to implement measures to provide non-smokers protection
from involuntary exposure to tobacco smoke. Consequent to this decision of the World
Health Assembly, the Indian Parliament passed the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products
(Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply,
and Distribution) Bill in April 2003. This Bill became an Act on 18 May 2003 and this is
popularly known as COTPA. COTPA has been enforced from 1 May 2004. The Act is
applicable to all products containing tobacco in any form and extends to the whole of India.

The Cigarettes (Regulation of Production, Supply, and Distribution) Act, enacted by the
Government of India makes it mandatory to display a statutory health warning on all
packages and advertisements of cigarettes since 1975. The following signs might have
captured your observations. These are to be strictly followed.

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The key provisions of COTPA -2003

1. The Act prohibits smoking of tobacco in public places, except in special smoking
zones in hotels, restaurants and airports and open spaces.
2. Advertisement of tobacco products including cigarettes is prohibited. No person shall
participate in advertisement of tobacco product, or allow a medium of publication to
be used for advertisement of tobacco products. No person shall sell video-film of such
advertisement, distribute leaflets, documents, or give space for erection of
advertisement of tobacco products However restricted advertisement is allowed on