Abstract
Background: Alcohol and substance related issues are very complex and challenges governmental resources at different levels to fulfill the obligations under the Government of India enacted various legislations and obligation under various International Conventions ratified by India. With the growing evidence of harmful and hazardous effects of alcohol and substance misuse (physical, psychological, social and occupational), growing realization of increasing trends in alcohol & substance misuse among vulnerable groups of population ( women & children) and multi-components approach to treatment including social and occupational rehabilitation, question emerging across the country is- how do we control this problem.
Aims: To examine the extent of alcohol and other substance use prevalence in Sikkim, provide a comparison with the national scenario, summarize governmental endeavors with regard to control and prevention and existing health care system to develop a range of approaches for the establishment of services for substance use disorders in the State within the matrix of existing health care system.
Materials & Methods: The body of information presented in this review has been generated through an extensive review of research papers published in peer reviewed journals, websites of the Sikkim government and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and newsletters.
Results: Though there are many innovative activities being undertaken by the State Government to control, regulate and prevent alcohol & substance misuse in the society, policy makers needs to include measures that ensure early recognition and better management of alcohol & substance related harm by empowering the community through adequate human resource and capacity building training.
Keywords: Substance abuse, scenario, Sikkim.
References
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Corresponding Author
Dr Satish Rasaily
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