The Karnataka government has announced an ambitious target to make the state drug free by 2028, intensifying its efforts to combat substance abuse through stronger enforcement, public awareness campaigns and community participation. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that the government has adopted a comprehensive approach aimed at eliminating drug abuse through coordinated action involving government agencies, educational institutions and civil society.

“Our goal is to make Karnataka free of drugs and substance abuse by 2028. We have taken a pledge to achieve this. If the public, youth and students join hands with the government, we can eliminate this menace,” Shivakumar said while addressing a public event focused on drug abuse prevention and youth awareness.

The state government’s strategy includes strengthening anti narcotics enforcement, expanding awareness programmes in schools and colleges, enhancing rehabilitation services and promoting community participation in prevention efforts. Officials have emphasized that educational institutions and youth organizations will play a central role in the campaign to reduce substance abuse and promote healthier lifestyles.

The initiative comes amid growing concerns about substance abuse among young people and its impact on public health, education and social well-being. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), an estimated 296 million people globally used drugs in 2021, reflecting a significant increase over the previous decade. In India, substance use disorders continue to pose a major public health challenge, with surveys indicating that millions of individuals require support, treatment and rehabilitation services.

Public health experts note that substance abuse contributes to a wide range of health complications, including mental health disorders, cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases and social consequences such as unemployment, crime and family disruption. They emphasize that effective prevention strategies require a combination of law enforcement, education, early intervention and access to treatment services.

The Karnataka government’s proposed roadmap also includes strengthening rehabilitation and de addiction services to support individuals affected by substance use disorders. Experts have welcomed the emphasis on prevention and community engagement, noting that sustainable progress requires active participation from families, educational institutions, healthcare providers and local communities.

Healthcare professionals further stress that public awareness campaigns targeting adolescents and young adults are essential, as early prevention and education can significantly reduce the long term burden of substance abuse. International evidence suggests that comprehensive, multi sectoral approaches are among the most effective strategies for reducing drug use and associated harms.

The state’s commitment to achieving drug free status by 2028 reflects a broader recognition of substance abuse as both a public health and social challenge. The success of the initiative, experts note, will depend on sustained implementation, strong inter sectoral coordination and active public participation over the coming years.