A शायर( Poet) inflicts self injury to inspire youth to rebuild a torn nation.-  Tandon Sir 

Part-II

Opium trade had similar impact in the United States. Several major business families did make money during 19th century( opium was a legal trade then). Many prominent families made wealth through its production, distribution and sale. The Forbes family made fortune in the Chinese opium trade before moving on to other industries. It is the money earned in opium trade that provided resource for future expansion. Another example is the Russell family which formed a opium trading firm. Of course they later diversified and became interested in industry such as shipping and banking. It is important to understand that the success such prominent business families both of US as well as in India cannot be solely attributed to their involvement in the opium trade. One should appreciate and give a thumbs up to such businessmen who although traded in opium but still managed to successfully avoid their own family members and themselves become an addict.

The addiction to opium and its derivatives, such as heroin or opioid prescription medications, has indeed played a significant role in the devastation of youth globally, particularly in the United States and Asia. Here are some key points regarding their devastating impact:

1. Health Consequences: Opium addiction poses severe health risks, including overdose, respiratory depression, infectious diseases (such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis), and mental health issues. The physical and psychological toll of addiction can have a detrimental impact on the well-being and future prospects of young individuals.

2. Social and Economic Impacts: Opium addiction can lead to various social and economic challenges. It can disrupt educational attainment, hinder employment prospects, strain relationships, and contribute to crime and violence. Communities affected by widespread addiction often experience economic burdens and strained social structures.

3. Opioid Epidemic: In the United States, the misuse of prescription opioids, along with the rise of illicit opioids like heroin and fentanyl, has contributed to an ongoing opioid epidemic. The epidemic has led to a staggering number of overdose deaths, particularly among young people, and has placed a heavy burden on public health resources.

4. Vulnerability and Exploitation: Youth are particularly vulnerable to the influence and exploitation of drug traffickers and criminal networks. The allure of drugs, coupled with societal challenges and limited support systems, can make young individuals more susceptible to addiction and involvement in illicit activities.

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including prevention efforts, access to evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation, harm reduction strategies, community support systems, education, and addressing underlying socio-economic factors that contribute to drug abuse. It is crucial to prioritize comprehensive approaches that prioritize the well-being and support of young individuals affected by opium addiction.

Making peace with opium generally refers to adopting a more compassionate and pragmatic approach towards the issue of drug addiction, particularly in the context of opium and its derivatives. Instead of solely focusing on punitive measures, making peace with opium involves implementing harm reduction strategies, providing access to treatment and rehabilitation programs, and addressing the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to drug abuse. It emphasizes a comprehensive approach that combines public health initiatives, education, and support systems to minimize the harms associated with opium use rather than simply criminalizing or stigmatising individuals struggling with addiction. When ending this article let us appreciate what is meant by a compassionate approach towards social ills like durg addiction. Here is a story to illustrate the point. 

A young girl is presented before a judge allegedly found stealing bread from a shop. The judge asked the girl is it true that you have stolen a loaf of bread from the shop and ran away. The girl said yes but with tears in her eyes added that for last two days she did not have a meal. In your opinion should the girl be punished or the concerned authorities should be summoned that how come hunger is so widespread under their nose.