Introduction
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has witnessed a significant rise in drug-related activities over the last few years, posing serious social, health and security challenges. The Union Territory’s strategic location and porous borders have made it a hotspot for narcotics trafficking, contributing to a surge in substance abuse and its devastating consequences on the youth and society at large.
Statistics on Drug Smuggling and Arrests
Between 2022 and 2024, J&K recorded over 1,800 cases of drug smuggling, with cannabis being the most trafficked substance. Arrests of alleged drug peddlers totaled approximately 2,400 during this period—765 in 2022, 865 in 2023 and 813 in 2024. Ladakh reported only two cases of cannabis smuggling in 2022, with no new cases thereafter.
Conviction rates for drug-related offenses have also improved dramatically, rising from 23% in 2022 to 54% in 2024. This success is attributed to specialized training provided to law enforcement officers and intensified efforts to dismantle the financial networks supporting the narcotics trade.
Key Drivers of Drug Trafficking
- Geographical Factors: J&K’s borders with Pakistan and Afghanistan serve as major transit points for narcotics smuggling. Regions such as Poonch, Samba, Baramulla and Kupwara are particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to the Line of Control (LoC).
- Terror Funding: Narcotics have been increasingly used to fund terror activities in J&K. Opioid production in neighboring regions has exacerbated the problem.
- Economic Challenges: Unemployment and mental health issues stemming from living in a conflict zone contribute to substance abuse among the youth.
Impact of Drug Abuse
The prevalence of drug addiction has soared in J&K, with nearly a million people—around 8% of the population—using substances like cannabis, opioids or sedatives. Experts report a staggering increase in patients seeking treatment for addiction-related neurological disturbances. Youth aged between 17 and 35 are particularly affected, with addiction rates showing alarming trends.
Government Measures
The government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy to combat drug abuse:
- Enforcement: Regular operations have led to arrests under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act. Authorities have also attached illegal assets worth Rs. 12.04 crore in 2024 as part of broader financial crackdowns.
- Awareness Campaigns: Over 25,000 programs have been conducted across schools, colleges, and communities to educate people about the consequences of drug abuse.
- Rehabilitation Facilities: Twenty addiction treatment facilities are operational across J&K, supported by trained medical officers from NIMHANS. Counseling services like Tele Manas provide additional support for victims.
- Policy Initiatives: The ‘Nasha Mukt Abhiyan‘ campaign has focused on prevention and treatment while monitoring habit-forming drugs under strict regulations.
Challenges Ahead
Despite these efforts, J&K continues to face challenges due to the widespread availability of drugs and their use as a source of terror funding. Experts emphasize the need for an integrated approach involving law enforcement, education, community engagement, and stricter penalties for offenders.
Fight Against Drugs
The battle against drugs in Jammu and Kashmir is far from over but has seen promising strides through coordinated enforcement actions, public awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs. Addressing this crisis requires sustained efforts from all stakeholders—government agencies, civil society, educators and families—to ensure that J&K emerges as a model for resilience against the drug menace.
