Drug abuse among teenage boys and girls in Kerala has become a deeply concerning issue in the recent past, reaching alarming levels. The state, despite its high literacy rates and social progress, is grappling with a severe drug epidemic that is impacting its youth significantly.

Here's a summary of the situation:Alarming Statistics and Trends:

• Significant Increase in Cases: Kerala has seen a massive surge in drug-related cases. From 2021 to 2024, there was a 330% increase in drug cases. In 2024 alone, Kerala recorded 27,701 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, which is more than three times Punjab's cases (traditionally considered India's drug epicentre).
• Involvement of Minors: The most distressing trend is the increasing involvement of children and teenagers.
  • In January-February 2025, 588 children (below 18 years) sought therapy from state-run de-addiction centers. This number was 2,880 in 2024, a 45% jump from 2023 (1,982 children).
  • A survey by the excise department revealed that 9% of individuals had tried drugs before turning 10, 70% by the age of 15, and another 20% by 19.
  • In 2023, 63 boys below 18 were found involved in drug cases, with 39 until August 2024.

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