Drug abuse has become one of the most worrying problems in today’s society, and Ukhrul district is also facing this challenge. Drug abuse means using legal or illegal substances in a harmful way that affects a person’s health, mind, and social life. Addiction is even more serious because it makes a person keep using drugs even when they know it is damaging their life. It is seen as a brain disorder because it affects the parts of the brain that control stress, reward, and self-control. Understanding this issue is important because it affects young people, families, and the future of the community.
In Ukhrul, drug abuse has become a major concern, especially among young people between the ages of seventeen and twenty-five. According to my research and local reports, there are around 2,800 drug users in Ukhrul and Kamjong, with the highest number in Ukhrul town. Over the last two decades, the use of heroin known as “No. 4,” ganja, cough syrups, sedatives, and other medicines without supervision has increased a lot. One of the main reasons is the easy availability of these substances through illegal markets and poorly regulated pharmacies. According to my research, Ukhrul’s location near the Indo-Myanmar border also makes it easier for drugs to enter the district.
There are many reasons why young people get involved in drugs. Peer pressure, curiosity, and the desire to fit in play a big role. According to my research, emotional stress, academic pressure, unemployment, and family problems push many youths toward drugs as a way to escape their difficulties. Poverty, lack of parental awareness, and having too much free time due to the absence of sports facilities or recreational spaces also make the situation worse. Many students start experimenting in groups where substances are already being used, sometimes even while they are still in school or college.
The effects of drug abuse are very harmful. Physically, many young users suffer from weight loss, poor sleep, frequent sickness, and long-term body damage. Mentally, addiction leads to anxiety, depression, irritability, and sudden changes in behaviour that create tension in families and the community. According to my research, some students start skipping classes, fall behind in their studies, or even drop out, while some workers lose their jobs because they cannot manage withdrawal or dependence. Families often hide the problem out of shame, which delays proper treatment.
Ukhrul also lacks enough support systems to deal with this crisis. There are only a few rehabilitation centres and not enough trained counsellors or mental health workers. According to my research, many families are forced to deal with the problem on their own or send their children far away for treatment, which becomes expensive and difficult to continue. Law enforcement alone has not been successful because drug routes and substances keep changing. Without a balanced approach that includes awareness, counselling, treatment, and community support, many young users remain stuck between punishment and neglect.
To solve this growing problem, all stakeholders must join hands together. Parents, teachers, village authorities, churches, youth groups, NGOs, healthcare workers, and the government all have important roles. According to my research, villages should form vigilance committees to watch over drug-related activities, identify early signs, and report responsibly without creating fear or shame. These committees can also organise awareness programmes and ensure that illegal pharmacies or drug supply points are not allowed to operate. Community counselling centres should be set up where young people and families can get guidance. Schools and colleges can form anti-drug clubs to spread awareness. More sports activities, cultural events, and skill-training programmes can help youth spend time in productive ways. Churches and civil society groups should also support those returning from rehabilitation so that they do not fall back into addiction. Police and communities should work together in a friendly and supportive way so that people feel safe to ask for help.
Drug abuse in Ukhrul is not just an individual problem but a serious issue that affects the whole community. According to my research, if everyone works together, if villages take responsibility through strong vigilance committees, and if young people are given better opportunities and support, Ukhrul can move towards a healthier and safer future. Understanding the problem is only the first step, but real improvement will come through collective action and shared responsibility.
The writer is a first semester student, Dept of Political Science, St. Joseph college, Ukhrul
1 thought on “Drug Abuse and Addiction in Ukhrul District: A Student Perspective”
Hi Tazak chipang, i enjoyed reading your article.. I am someone who is equally interested in talking over this public health issue. It is very encouraging for a person like me who have gone through drug use and is serving my community in the humblest way I could.. I would like to personally talk and share some points additionally to the profound research you have done.. looking forth.
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