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Increasing number of addicts hinders development: Shidhatha

Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services Shidhatha Shareef has affirmed, the increasing number of drug addicts in Maldives hinders national development. Speaking at the function to inaugurate the Open Day organized by National Drug Agency (NDA), Minister Shidhatha said, the abuse of drugs and the growing number of addicts in Maldives is one major factor that hinder the development of the country.

She asserted, every individual must play their role in saving the youth from this destructive grip of drugs and substance abuse, as they are the future of our nation. Minister spoke in detail about the economic and social consequences of the increasing number of drug addicts in Maldives.

Impacts of the growth of drug network on foreign currency, illegal businesses, black money in addition to the currently existing unemployment and limited human resource the country experience are few of the grave problems resulting in drug trade. She further highlighted, the drug has been the cause of various social problems and crimes.

The minister advised the authorities to be cautious and well-informed as the drug trade has always explored innovative approaches to managing its trade. She also discussed how drug abuse and the drug trade impact people who are not involved. Shidhatha explained that the cost the government spends on rehabilitation, social safety and security, and expenses on taking other preventive and corrective measures reduce the budget at government’s dispense on development projects.

The minister also highlighted on the measures the government is taking to ensure more community involvement in addressing this grave concern for everyone explaining that the support of the community is essential in saving children, and the youth from abusing drugs. She concluded her speech assuring the people that the government shall be firm in its actions in addressing and preventing drug abuse.