Govt striving to control opium addiction: Nasir
By Bushra Rafique

ISLAMABAD—The Government is making all out efforts to control opium addiction by the country’s youth and other vulnerable segments, expanding its response through various initiatives.
Addressing a joint press conference here, Minister for Health MuhammadNasir Khan and Minister for Narcotics Control, Ghaus Bux Mehr said more drug addict control centres will be set up in the country to make addicts useful citizens.
They said increasing production of poppy growth in Afghanistan may create a alarming situation not only for its own citizens but also for the neighbouring countries. They said there is need to take steps in this regard. Muhammad Nasir Khan said it is high time to disseminate information on the negative effects of use of opium particularly on youth and other vulnerable groups.
He said youth are more vulnerable and the government is concentrating more on them to protect their future. Replying to a question regarding HIV/AIDS situation, the ministersaid total 3,500 AIDS cases have been registered, adding, work is underway to work out a formula to know the proper situation regarding the exact number of affected cases.
He said use of affected syringes is a main source of increasing HIV/AIDS in the country. He said the ministry of Health has purchased disposable syringes from abroad in large number. The minister said the ministry is creating awareness regarding use of disposable syringes and to avoid use of used syringes in hospitals. He said several measures have been adopted to create awareness among masses besides involving all segments of society to fight HIV/AIDS.
He said the major bulk of interventions have been designed for delivery a defined package of services to the vulnerable groups which include injecting drug users, returned migrant workers etc.
He said the ministry has developed several strategies for better and standard management of HIV and AIDS patients and preparation of treatment guidelines. He said all stakeholders should come forward and play their due role in fight against HIV/AIDS. “We all have to work together in creating awareness about HIV/AIDS and helping the people living with HIV/AIDS.”
“ Best thing is prevention. Information has to be given to the youth on HIV/AIDS,” the minister said. Minister for Narcotics Control, Ghaus Bux Mehr said the government seized several tons of opium during a year and will continue its efforts to control smuggling of opium inside and from outside the country.
To a question, he said it is responsibility of the provincial governments to control use of opium at street level. UN Resident Coordinator in Pakistan, Jan Vandemoortele said that UN is very much concerned about increase of opium in Afghanistan. He said UN is trying to engage partners and deployed troops to play role in this regard.
He said UN will continue its advocacy strategy in Afghanistan to control poppy growth.