The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment published a success story demonstrating the effectiveness of the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) program. The case features a 47-year-old OBC individual from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, who overcame substance addiction through government-supported rehabilitation services.
Amit Kumar (name changed) had faced significant personal, social and economic challenges due to substance addiction, which adversely affected his physical and mental well-being, reduced his self-confidence, and created difficulties maintaining regular work. Coming from a financially disadvantaged family, he experienced economic hardship and unstable income due to irregular employment, compounded by social stigma and strained family relationships.
On 13 August 2021, the individual received support through Basudev Tiwari Sewa Sansthan's Punarjanm Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCA) in Gorakhpur, which provided free de-addiction treatment, medical care, prescribed medicines, psychological counselling, and motivational support. The center conducted regular counselling sessions and follow-up care, along with family counselling and emotional support to rebuild confidence and improve family relationships.
Following successful recovery, the individual established a livelihood by driving his own auto-rickshaw and now earns approximately ₹30,000 per month, representing a significant improvement from his earlier situation of irregular work and unstable income. His earnings have improved his family's financial condition and enabled consistent contribution toward household expenses.
The case highlights NAPDDR's role in supporting recovery, rehabilitation and socio-economic reintegration through treatment, psychological support, and family involvement, demonstrating how accessible de-addiction services can help individuals reclaim their lives and achieve financial self-reliance.