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Himachal Pradesh has emerged as the second most drug-affected state in India after Punjab, with alarming statistics revealing that nearly 9% of schoolchildren in the state use injectable drugs, Shimla MP Suresh Kashyap informed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. Speaking during a parliamentary session, Kashyap highlighted the growing drug menace in Himachal Pradesh, particularly among the youth. He urged the central government to take urgent steps to curb the spread of narcotics in the hill state, which has become a transit hub for drug smuggling. Alarming Drug Abuse Among Youth The revelation that 9% of school-going children are using injectable drugs has sparked serious concerns among policymakers and parents. According to Kashyap, drug abuse is rampant in districts like Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla, where authorities have reported a sharp rise in narcotics-related cases. “Himachal Pradesh is facing a severe drug crisis, second only to Punjab. What is even more disturbing is that 9% of schoolchildren have reportedly used injection-based drugs, which poses a major health and social challenge,” Kashyap said. Himachal a Key Drug Transit Route The state’s geographical location, bordering Punjab and being close to international smuggling routes, has made it a key transit point for drugs such as heroin, opium, and synthetic substances. Reports suggest that drugs from Afghanistan and Pakistan enter India through Punjab and are then trafficked to Himachal and beyond. Law enforcement agencies have been conducting regular crackdowns on drug traffickers, but the problem persists due to increasing demand and the easy availability of narcotics. Government's Response and Call for Action Following Kashyap’s statement, several MPs demanded stricter enforcement of anti-drug laws and better rehabilitation programs for affected youth. The Himachal Pradesh government has also intensified its campaign against drugs, launching awareness programs in schools and increasing vigilance at state borders. Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between state and central agencies to combat drug smuggling and addiction. Special Narcotics Task Forces (NTF) are being deployed to curb drug-related crimes in the region. Growing Concern Over Drug Abuse in India The rising drug abuse problem is not limited to Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. States like Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi have also reported an increase in substance abuse, particularly among young people. Experts warn that if the issue is not addressed urgently, it could lead to severe social and economic consequences. As the government takes steps to tackle the crisis, public awareness, parental supervision, and community involvement remain crucial in preventing the younger generation from falling into the trap of drug addiction.