By Muzamil Arif
A nation progresses when its youth are guided towards education, discipline, and hope rather than addiction and despair. The vision of an addiction-free society cannot depend on slogans alone; it requires consistent policies, social awareness, and collective responsibility. The debate surrounding liquor policies in Jammu & Kashmir highlights an important need for thoughtful dialogue and balanced reforms aimed at securing a healthier future for the coming generation.
Across Jammu and Kashmir, campaigns under the banner of the “Nasha-Mukt Bharat Abhiyan” continue to gain visibility. Schools, colleges, police departments, and social organisations regularly organise rallies, awareness drives, seminars, and public programmes aimed at protecting the younger generation from addiction. The message is clear: substance abuse is a growing threat to society and a serious challenge to the future of the nation.
At the same time, however, the continued operation and auctioning of liquor vends across the Union Territory has sparked public debate and concern. Many citizens now question whether anti-addiction campaigns and liquor policies are moving in the same direction. The debate is no longer only about alcohol; it is about the broader message being communicated to society, especially to the youth.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has repeatedly acknowledged the rising danger of drug abuse and narcotics in recent years. Authorities have launched awareness programmes and anti-drug initiatives to combat addiction and discourage the spread of narcotic substances. These efforts are necessary and deserve appreciation. A society affected by addiction faces consequences that go far beyond individual suffering — families break down, economic conditions worsen, mental health declines, and the social fabric weakens.
Yet many people believe that the presence of openly operating liquor outlets creates a contradiction in public policy. On one hand, campaigns urge young people to stay away from intoxicants; on the other hand, alcohol remains legally accessible through licensed systems. This duality has created confusion among sections of society who expect stronger consistency between public messaging and administrative action.
The debate between revenue and social responsibility
From the government’s perspective, alcohol and narcotic drugs are treated differently under the law. Alcohol is regulated through licensing and excise policies, while narcotic drugs are illegal and punishable offences. Revenue generated through excise also contributes to government finances and economic activity. Supporters of the current policy argue that complete prohibition may encourage illegal trade, black marketing, and unsafe illicit liquor networks, which could create even greater social and health risks.
These arguments carry administrative and economic significance. However, the social concerns being raised by citizens also deserve serious consideration.
Jammu and Kashmir is passing through an important phase where the role of youth is central to future peace, development, and nation-building. In such a situation, any form of addiction — whether drugs or excessive alcohol consumption — can become an obstacle to progress. Young people require opportunities, education, sports infrastructure, employment, and positive social environments that encourage productivity and discipline.
The larger concern expressed by many families is that addiction in any form gradually weakens individuals and communities. Parents worry not only about drugs, but about the growing normalisation of intoxicants in society. Public anxiety increases when awareness campaigns against addiction continue alongside policies that appear, at least symbolically, to move in another direction.
This issue therefore requires a balanced and practical approach rather than emotional reactions or extreme positions.
History has shown that sudden prohibition policies do not always eliminate addiction and can sometimes strengthen illegal markets. At the same time, awareness campaigns alone cannot succeed without broader social reforms. The real challenge lies in building a long-term strategy that reduces dependency on intoxicants while also addressing unemployment, social frustration, and lack of opportunities among youth.
Towards a more consistent and responsible policy
Instead of relying heavily on excise-based revenue systems, greater emphasis can be placed on sectors that create sustainable growth and social stability, including tourism, entrepreneurship, agriculture, handicrafts, education, and skill development. Stronger regulation of liquor outlets, strict enforcement around educational institutions and residential areas, age verification mechanisms, and awareness regarding responsible behaviour are equally important.
Most importantly, rehabilitation and counselling facilities must become more accessible. Addiction should not only be viewed as a law-and-order issue but also as a social and public health challenge. Families struggling with substance abuse often require support, guidance, and rehabilitation rather than silence and stigma.
The ongoing debate in Jammu & Kashmir reflects a larger national question: how can society effectively fight addiction while simultaneously balancing economic realities and administrative policies? There may not be easy answers, but there is certainly a need for greater clarity, consistency, and public engagement.
A nation’s strength is ultimately measured not only through economic growth or infrastructure, but through the well-being, discipline, and potential of its younger generation. If the vision of a “Nasha-Mukt Bharat Abhiyan” is to become meaningful in practice, then policies, awareness campaigns, and social priorities must work together in harmony.
A society cannot move confidently towards a drug-free future while remaining uncertain about the direction of its own policies.
MUZAMIL ARIF is an independent writer and social commentator who writes on various contemporary issues including environmental, social, health, political, regional and youth-related topics.
