Imphal: Manipur faces a growing drug crisis. Nearly two lakh youths in the state depend on substances, according to a 2019 survey. L. Dhaneshwor, deputy director of the Social Welfare Department, calls the statistics deeply alarming. He spoke at a Drug Awareness Programme at Catholic School in Canchipur, organized by The Nationalists Collective Manipur.
The state serves as a transit corridor for heroin and methamphetamine from the Golden Triangle. Manipur shares a 398-kilometre porous border with Myanmar. Dhaneshwor said the government is using the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan to fight back. He wants every school to hire trained counsellors. Children must seek help from adults when facing distress.
A recent study shows most users start between ages 14 and 18. Experts cite this as proof that early intervention is vital. Ninthoujam Kilosker delivered the keynote address. He linked survival to how a society meets its threats. He noted that addiction messes with the brain, explaining, "Addiction should be understood as a brain and behavioural disorder rather than merely a moral failing."
The Social Welfare Department continues to push for rehabilitation and demand reduction. Law enforcement focuses on supply. A new national survey expected in 2026 will track the current situation. Officials including Fr. Immanuel Kholi, Laishram Joy Khuman, Maibam Jogesh, Sougrakpam Sumati, and Thongam Thoithoiba attended the event to call for a drug-free Kanglei society.
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