Drug addiction challenge to national security: Kovind

Increased drug trafficking in states with international borders poses challenge to national security, President Ram Nath Kovind said on Tuesday.

"Increase in drug trafficking and drug abuse in the border areas is also associated with issues of terrorism and political unrest. That is why there is a need to be more vigilant in border states like Punjab and Manipur," he said in his address at an event on the occasion of 'International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking'.

He also presented the national awards for outstanding services in the field of prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse.

Kovind also notes that the country's geographical location between Myanmar-Laos-Thailand's 'Golden Triangle' and Iran-Afghanistan-Pakistan's 'Golden Crescent', makes the problem of drug abuse and illicit trafficking even more acute and complicated.

He also said that problem of drugs addiction and alcoholism negatively impacts the individual, family and society in multiple domains such as health, culture, development and politics.

"Misuse of illegal drugs is creating health challenges especially for the young generation and school going children," he said.

About eradication of drug addiction and problems associated with drug abuse, the President said it can be solved by awareness, prevention, incentives, and support efforts.

"In these efforts compassion and sympathy for the drug addicts is also necessary. Parents, teachers, doctors, voluntary organizations should be associated in the medical and rehabilitation efforts," Kovind said.

--IANS

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