The Prevalence of Alcohol and Other Substance Abuse in Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India

Abstract

Kullu is also known as the “Valley of Gods” and it is situated in the lap of the great Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh. The valley is famous for its temples, magnificent hills and splendid beauty. The hills are covered with pine and deodar forests. Thus, thousands of tourists throng to visit this beautiful valley. The Valley is also renowned for its International fare Dussehra. People from all over the world come to witness this grand union of hundreds of deities. But recently the valley is also in news for rising drug menace. The use of synthetic drugs has become a big concern over the past few years. In past alcohol and cannabis were very common but now the trend has shifted to more lethal synthetic drugs primarily heroin also known as Chitta. It is well known and accepted fact that drug abuse is a social vice that contributes to numerous problems in society at large. It is not only a threat to social peace and harmony but also to social development as well as a big obstacle in county’s progress.