The issue of drug involvement among Punjab’s new generation has been a significant concern in recent years. While it is important to avoid generalizations and recognize that not all individuals in the new generation are involved in drugs, several factors contribute to the perception and blame placed on this segment of the population. This essay will explore some of the reasons why Punjab’s new generation is often associated with drug involvement and the complexities surrounding this issue. The only industries with a larger annual revenue than the drug industry are the oil and armaments industries. Drug use affects nearly 190 million people worldwide, with negative effects on communities, neighborhoods, and families.
Drug users who become dealers, frequent tip-offs where political favoritism is given, and the use of law and order’s soft power all contribute to the chitta’s continued success as a thriving commercial center in Punjab, which is trickling down to the country’s young Indian population. According to survey estimates, Punjab has more than 2 lakh opioid addicts, but the actual figure is far higher.
Drug usage in India is an “iceberg phenomenon”-like public health issue that goes unnoticed. The top of the iceberg is what society can see and what is shown in well-known films like Udta Punjab. Only a few key players who choose to dive deep enough to see it can see how the iceberg formed, though.
The drug trade spreads from the Afghan poppy fields to the fields of rural Punjab, as well as to the boardrooms of Patiala, Ludhiana, Chandigarh, and other cities. The parties involved include powerful, aggressive young people, jobless people looking for purpose and existence, bored housewives looking to make fast cash, and even the police, who are frequently understaffed and underpaid.
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Accessibility and Availability
One contributing factor is the increased accessibility and availability of drugs in Punjab. The state’s closeness to drug trafficking routes and its porous borders create opportunities for the smuggling and distribution of illicit substances. The availability of drugs, including chitta (a dangerous synthetic drug), has made it easier for individuals, including the new generation, to come into contact with drugs.
Socioeconomic Factors
Socioeconomic factors play a role in the involvement of Punjab’s new generation in drug abuse. High unemployment rates, limited job opportunities, and economic disparities can lead to frustration, hopelessness, and a sense of . Some individuals may turn to drugs as a coping mechanism or a means to escape from their challenging circumstances.
Peer Pressure and Influence
Peer pressure and influence have a significant impact on the choices and behaviors of young people. In certain social circles, drug use may be normalized or even glorified. The desire to fit in, gain acceptance, or seek a sense of belonging can lead individuals to experiment with drugs, particularly if their friends or acquaintances are involved in drug use.
Lack of Awareness and Education
A lack of awareness and education about the risks and consequences of drug abuse can contribute to the involvement of Punjab’s new generation in drugs. Limited access to full drug education programs, as well as cultural taboos surrounding the topic, may leave young people uninformed about the dangers of drug use and unprepared to make informed decisions.
Influence of Media and Popular Culture
Media and popular culture, including music, movies, and social media, play a significant role in shaping perceptions, values, and behaviors among young people. The glorification of drug use in certain forms of media can inadvertently contribute to the normalization of drug abuse and influence the attitudes and behaviors of the new generation.
Lack of Recreational Facilities and Positive Outlets
A lack of recreational facilities and positive outlets for young people can contribute to their susceptibility to drug involvement. The absence of engaging activities and avenues for constructive self-expression may lead some individuals to seek excitement or stimulation through drugs, especially when faced with boredom or a lack of alternative options.
Emotional and Mental Health Challenges
The new generation in Punjab, like young people worldwide, faces a range of emotional and mental health challenges. Factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, and a sense of disillusionment can increase vulnerability to drug abuse as individuals seek relief or self-medication. Insufficient access to mental health support services and the stigma surrounding seeking help can exacerbate these challenges.
According to estimates, every third family in Punjab has at least one drug addict, and more than 75% of young people in the province have drug addictions. At least 30% of prison inmates have been booked and jailed for illicit drug possession in violation of the NDPS Act. Suspected HIV prevalence is still widespread among them. We must recognize that the creation of jails was not motivated by a desire to be therapeutic from the standpoint of public health but rather by a desire to uphold constitutional protections.
It is crucial to approach the issue of drug involvement among Punjab’s new generation with empathy, understanding, and a comprehensive approach. Addressing the problem requires a combination of prevention efforts, education, accessible mental health services, economic opportunities, and community engagement. Investing in youth development programs, promoting positive role models, fostering a supportive environment, and empowering young people with skills and resources can help steer them away from drug abuse and toward a healthier, more fulfilling future.
