UPSC Notes

Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation in India

PYQs

8

Articles

1

Momentum

21

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

Substance abuse is a critical social issue with profound public health implications, impacting social justice, economic productivity, and internal security. UPSC examines government policies, welfare schemes, and the role of state and central agencies in addressing such challenges.

Substance abuse, encompassing drug and alcohol addiction, is a significant public health and social challenge in India, impacting individuals, families, and national productivity. Government initiatives and rehabilitation programs are crucial for addressing this issue, focusing on prevention, treatment, and reintegration.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Prevalence

India faces a growing challenge of substance abuse, particularly among youth and vulnerable populations.

Government Schemes

The National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) is a key central scheme for prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Legal Framework

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, governs drug control and penalizes illicit trafficking and consumption.

Rehabilitation Services

Both government and non-governmental organizations operate de-addiction and rehabilitation centres across the country.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaSocial Justice & Development

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
Ministry of Social Justice and EmpowermentFormulates policies and implements schemes for drug demand reduction
State Health DepartmentsImplement de-addiction and rehabilitation programs at the state level
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Multi-statement analysis

Prelims angle: Factual recall

Quick revision

  • Substance abuse: major public health & social challenge in India.
  • Government strategy: prevention, treatment, rehabilitation.
  • Key central scheme: NAPDDR (Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment).
  • Legal framework: NDPS Act, 1985, for drug control.
  • State role: crucial for expanding de-addiction infrastructure and access.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

Social Justice & Development

Gujarat approves de-addiction centres in all district hospitals

22 Jul 2026 · Substance abuse is a major social and health issue in India, requiring comprehensive strategies including de-addiction, rehabilitation, and legal frameworks like the NDPS Act. State-level initiatives, such as Gujarat's de-addiction centres, are vital for improving access to care and achieving a 'drug-free' society.

Read article

Related topics

Current topic

Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation in India

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 8 linked questions on Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation in India in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation in India

Practice official previous year questions asked by UPSC related to this concept.

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2023·Social Issues & Schemes
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