Government Strengthens Drug Demand Reduction, Expands De-Addiction Services and Streamlines Support Under Centrally Sponsored Schemes: MoS for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri B. L. Verma in Written Reply in Lok Sabha

The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment reported that it has simplified fund release procedures for centrally‑sponsored schemes such as the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) and Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) by revising SOPs and reducing documentation. It cited the first National Survey on the Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India, which estimates 15.10 crore adult alcohol users and significant use of cannabis, opioids, sedatives and inhalants. The Ministry now supports 344 Integrated Rehabilitation Centres, 45 Community‑based Peer‑Led Interventions, 76 Outreach and Drop‑in Centres, 145 District De‑Addiction Centres and 155 Addiction Treatment Facilities. The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan has reached over 29.68 crore citizens, including 11.43 crore youth and 8.05 crore women, and treated 28.29 lakh persons. Independent evaluations by Development & Research Services Pvt. Ltd. (Dec 2024) and NITI Aayog (2025) found significant progress in institutional capacity and awareness‑raising.