MVR Menon Blog

Perspective: Unbiased – 5

 The Growing Drug Menace Among Children and Youth in Kerala

MVR Menon – 17. 4. 2025 

The Lions Club of Olavakkode conducted an anti-drug campaign at a nearby school in Ummini. The main speaker, Excise officer Sri Abdul Basith’s one-hour-and-fifteen-minute speech, was patiently heard by the 125-odd children. We have decided to continue our crusade against the spread of the drug menace among school children by repeating such exercises.

Information collected and knowledge gained on this social evil prompted me to write this blog! 

 Prelude: 

Kerala, my home state, renowned for its high literacy rates and progressive social indicators, is grappling with a troubling rise in drug abuse, particularly among children and youth. Recent studies and reports have shed light on the alarming rise in substance misuse, revealing concerning patterns and demographic shifts.​

 

 

(Recent Lok Sabha data revealed Kerala led in drug cases with over 85,000.)

 

Introduction: 

Despite efforts taken by the Government and Social organisations in Kerala, substance misuse is emerging as a major public health crisis. 

1. Rising Incidence of Drug Abuse Among Children and Youth: 

a.    Early Initiation:

A significant issue contributing to the crisis is the early age at which young children are being introduced to drugs. Research from the Kerala Excise Department highlights that approximately 70% of individuals start using substances like alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis between the ages of 10 and 15.

b.    Prevalent Drugs Among Youth:

The most commonly abused substances among Kerala's youth are Marijuana (Cannabis - Ganja), Stimulants (Cocaine and Methamphetamine) and synthetic drugs like MDMA (Ecstasy, Molly). According to a 2024 report, 82% of teenagers reported using cannabis, with peer pressure playing a key role in initiation. Synthetic drugs, especially MDMA, have also gained popularity due to their availability and social acceptance in certain groups. 

2. Demographics and Gender Distribution: 

The Excise Department's data indicates a worrying increase in the involvement of minors in drug-related cases. In the first quarter of 2023, 32% of people seeking counselling for addiction were under 18, showing a disturbing trend in younger generations being affected.

Additionally, women and girls, once seen as less involved in drug abuse, now represent a growing segment of drug users. Between 2023 and 2024, 145 women and 102 minors were involved in drug-related offences. 

3. Peer Influence and Social Media: 

One of the key factors behind the increase in drug abuse among youth is peer pressure. Many adolescents start using drugs simply because they are introduced to them by friends or social circles. In some cases, the ease of access to drugs, especially on digital platforms and social media, also plays a role. 

Additionally, some adolescents are being influenced through social media, where drug culture is often glamorised, making it appear cool or acceptable to engage in substance abuse.

 

4. The Role of Synthetic Drugs: 

Synthetic drugs, like MDMA, have emerged as a significant problem among Kerala's youth. In 2022, Kerala police seized over 14 kg of MDMA, a substantial increase from previous years. MDMA, often seen as a "party drug," has especially affected those aged 20-25. 

 5. Government and Community Responses:

 a.    Anti-Drug Campaigns:

The Kerala government, recognising the gravity of the situation, has launched several initiatives to combat drug abuse. These initiatives include awareness campaigns in schools and colleges, de-addiction programs, and counselling centres. 

(School children attending a drug abuse awareness class)

 b. Vimukthi Program:

 

The Vimukthi Program, initiated by the Kerala Excise Department, has been pivotal in providing counselling and rehabilitation services. With centres spread across the state, Vimukthi helps youth struggling with addiction by offering psychological support and guidance.

6. Conclusion and Way Forward: 

The drug menace among children and youth in Kerala is not just a law enforcement issue but a serious public health crisis that demands urgent attention. While the government and various organisations are doing their best to provide education, counselling, and rehabilitation, the community also plays a vital role in prevention. 

Final Thoughts: 

Addressing the drug issue requires collaboration between the government, NGOS, schools, and families. Prevention, early intervention, and access to rehabilitation are key elements in tackling this growing concern.

Kerala’s experience should be a cautionary tale for other states, underscoring the importance of vigilance, education, and a community-based approach to drug prevention. Tackling this issue is crucial to safeguarding the well-being of future generations and maintaining the state's social fabric.

In conclusion, tackling drug abuse requires a unified and sincere commitment at all levels of governance. It is imperative that government officials, including ministers, demonstrate genuine dedication to combating this crisis. This means moving beyond rhetoric and making conscious choices that reflect a stand against substance abuse, such as re-evaluating support for the liquor industry through the issuance of manufacturing and bar licenses. Only through consistent, integrity-driven leadership can we hope to foster a healthier, drug-free society.

 

MV Ramachandran Menon

Email: mvrmenon@gmail.com