Drug addiction in educational institutions puts youth at risk in Kashmir.

Srinagar: The availability of narcotics is one of the most pressing issues confronting us today, particularly in Kashmir. Thousands of Kashmiris, primarily students, have become addicted to drugs as the Valley has been swamped with massive amounts of drugs in recent years.
In Kashmir, the number of substance addicts has risen dramatically. Students, particularly those between 17 and 30, have been identified as active drug users. Cannabis is the most abused drug due to its accessibility.
Smoking is the first step toward becoming addicted to drugs. According to the researchers, drug use in movies impacts drug use among university students. There are a variety of factors that might lead to illegal drug usage, including stress in any sphere of life; dissatisfaction or depression due to personal or professional causes; the companionship of drug-using friends; and the endeavour to adopt a modern lifestyle: being unemployed: a lack of parental attention.
A fourth-year student at the University of Kashmir was hooked on drugs for three years. He began to consume narcotics with the help of his pals and then finally became utterly obsessed. He’s addicted to getting more or less all types of medications. He chose these medications for a reason. He believes that ‘cannabis’ helps the body to function better. It makes the intellect lively and vigorous heightened awareness. His drug spending fluctuates from month to month. This money came from his family and other sources. His financial situation determines his willingness to take medication. “After four years, I quit taking drugs with the help of family members and taking proper advice from my family doctor”, he said.
A 3rd-year student from KU has been a smoker since class nine. He began using Charas after being accepted to college. His addiction began shortly after he began university. There was no one to stop him from engaging in such activities. He started to use tablets. He started consuming drugs primarily to fulfil his curiosity. He explained why he chose these medications. When one smokes Charas, he feels energized. He also stopped taking drugs after four years with the help of friends and family members.
Drug abuse is already a concern among university students. In Kashmir, students had easy access to narcotics. Students who have enough money can easily buy drugs. The rate of drug addiction among students has increased due to the increasing availability of drugs.
Many university students in Kashmir take drugs regularly because of readily available. There are a large number of students who quit taking drugs after many efforts and they also suggest other students stop taking drugs as it is harmful to health and also prohibited in Islam.
The number has increased for peddling and smuggling prohibited substances has increased. Recent seizures and arrests of drug sellers under the Public Safety combatting police are taking action to combat the problem. NGOs, schools, and universities should hold programmes and seminars regularly to educate students and the broader public about the dangers of drug abuse.