Every year on June 26th, 'International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking' is observed. The aim of this day is to raise awareness about drug addiction and its harmful effects in society. This day motivates people towards a drug-free society and sends a message to governments, organizations, and ordinary citizens to unite and work against this social evil.
How did International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking begin?
Drug addiction was becoming a serious global challenge. Associated crimes, health problems, unemployment, and family breakdown worried the entire world. Considering these growing problems, the United Nations General Assembly decided in 1987 that June 26th would be observed every year as the 'International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking'.
The main objective of observing this day is to curb the illegal trafficking of narcotics and to make people aware of the adverse effects of drug addiction, so that society can be freed from this evil.
What is the 2025 theme?
Every year, this day has a specific theme that conveys a special message to society. The theme for 2025 is: "Drug-free youth, empowered nation".
Through this theme, it is explained that if the younger generation stays away from drugs, it can not only build a bright future for itself but also contribute significantly to the nation's progress.
Types of Drugs and Their Adverse Effects
- Addiction is not limited to alcohol or cigarettes. Many types of drugs are prevalent today, such as:
- Tobacco, gutkha, beedi, cigarettes
- Alcohol
- Cannabis, charas, opium
- Dangerous drugs like heroin, cocaine, LSD
- Misuse of medical drugs (painkillers, cough syrups, etc.)
Adverse Effects of These Drugs
- Impairment of mental and physical health
- Suicidal tendencies
- Violent and criminal tendencies
- Isolation from family and society
- Failure in education and career
Premature Death
- Why do people fall prey to addiction?
- Addiction usually starts with fun, fashion, or peer pressure. Some common reasons are:
- Mental stress, loneliness, or family problems
- Unemployment or career failure
- Influence of films or social media
Association with Addicted Friends
- Parental neglect or lack of communication
- Gradually, it becomes a habit, and the person becomes a slave to addiction.
- Addiction and the younger generation
- Today's youth are most affected by this evil. In colleges, schools, or coaching centers, students are often drawn to drugs.
- This not only affects their studies but also ruins their future.
- Role of the government and institutions in drug rehabilitation
- The government and various social institutions are constantly striving to solve this problem:
- Establishment of drug rehabilitation centers
- Awareness programs in educational institutions
- Launch of the 'Drug-Free India Campaign'
- Dissemination through media and social media
Control over the Drug Supply Chain
- Along with this, many NGOs and aware citizens also organize rallies, workshops, and counseling sessions from time to time to keep people away from drugs.
- What does Indian culture say?
- In Indian culture, moderation, morality, and health are considered the foundation of life.
- The Mahabharata, Ramayana, and other scriptures also inspire people to stay away from alcohol or intoxicating substances. Our sages always talk about maintaining mental and physical balance through pure diet, a clean lifestyle, and yoga.
- Yoga and Meditation: The Path to Drug Rehabilitation
- International Yoga Day is also celebrated in June (June 21). Yoga and meditation not only keep the body healthy but also relieve mental stress.
Benefits of Yoga
- Peace of mind
- Freedom from negative thoughts
- Increased self-control
- Reduction in depression, anxiety, and stress
Today, many drug rehabilitation centers conduct regular yoga and meditation classes, which benefit patients significantly.
What can we do?
- The responsibility of preventing addiction lies not only with the government but also with every citizen. We all have to work together in this direction:
- Increase communication with children and teach them to identify right from wrong
- Instead of scolding those who use drugs, explain to them and help them
- Encourage people in society who have overcome addiction
- Spread awareness on social media
- Maintain distance from addicted friends or try to help them improve
- Inspiring messages on International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
- "Choose education, not drugs"
- "A healthy mind resides in a healthy body"
- "Addiction is the end of life, moderation is the beginning of life"
- "Give up every addiction, strengthen every relationship"
Addiction is a slow poison that harms a person's body, mind, family, and society. 'International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking' is an opportunity for us to promise ourselves that we will stay away from drugs and make others aware. The vision of a healthy, b, and drug-free India can only be realized when every citizen starts with themselves.
