Healthcare overwhelmed: With only one tertiary facility for addiction treatment, Goa’s public health system is under immense pressure. Alcohol still dominates: Doctors treat liver failure, psychosis, and depression across all age groups—even as opioids and synthetics gain ground.
BY Navin Upadhyay
July 23, 2025: Goa, India’s iconic tourist destination long associated with beaches, nightlife, and free-spirited living, is now in the grip of a growing addiction crisis. Over 6,529 persons were treated for substance abuse in the state’s public health facilities between January 2022 and June 2024, according to data tabled by Health Minister Vishwajit Rane in the Goa Legislative Assembly.
The figures, compiled from the state-run Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour (IPHB) and other de-addiction centres, reflect a sharp increase in cases related to alcohol and drug abuse—signaling that addiction is no longer confined to specific pockets or demographics.
“Goa has become a drug haven and a narcotics hub. Drugs seized in raids are just the tip of the iceberg. The menace has reached even the hinterlands,” warned Goa MLA Vijai Sardesai.
Alcohol Remains the Leading Addiction
Alcohol continues to dominate as the most abused substance in the state. The IPHB treated 1,222 persons for alcohol dependency, with 455 requiring inpatient admission.
Doctors warn that despite its legal and social acceptance, alcohol’s impact is devastating.
“We are seeing patients as young as 18 and as old as 60 suffering from liver damage, psychosis, and clinical depression,” said an IPHB consultant.
Now the young lives are being lost to drugs addiction. Goa’s reputation is being damaged. Govt isn’t doing anything to stop it ! #GoaDrugsCrisis pic.twitter.com/TKRcxqQkAu
— Shukanta (@me_shukanta) July 23, 2025
Raising concerns on social media, Goa Indian Youth Congress Vice President Mahesh Nadar posted on X: “Drugs are flooding Goa, ruining our youth and future. Crimes against women—rape, molestation, and child abuse—are rising. Assault cases are creating fear and insecurity among Goans.”
Drug Abuse Among Youth on the Rise
The minister’s data did not disaggregate substance abuse by drug type, but health officials confirm an uptick in cases involving narcotics such as heroin, synthetic drugs (LSD, MDMA), and opioids like tramadol and buprenorphine.
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“The profile of drug users is changing,” said a counsellor from a North Goa clinic. “We now see school and college students, daily wage workers, cab drivers, and even professionals seeking help for hard drug dependency.”
Coastal tourist hubs like Anjuna, Calangute, and Vagator remain major hotspots for drug trafficking and abuse. However, a growing number of cases are also emerging from hinterland talukas such as Quepem and Canacona, revealing a silent spread.
Crisis Cuts Across the State
While North Goa has traditionally been in the spotlight due to its vibrant party culture, South Goa is not far behind. Addiction cases are rising uniformly across districts.
“Addiction has no caste, class, or geographic boundary. It is now prevalent across urban and rural Goa,” said a de-addiction specialist at the South Goa District Hospital.
Public Healthcare Under Strain
Goa’s addiction treatment infrastructure is under severe pressure. The IPHB remains the only tertiary psychiatric facility with dedicated resources for addiction, while other district hospitals have limited capacity, beds, and staff.
“There’s an urgent need for more rehab centres at the taluka level and a focus on aftercare,” said Dr. Swati Naik, a government psychiatrist.
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NGOs and church-based organisations have stepped in, but their services remain overburdened and underfunded.
What Experts Recommend
Addiction experts and mental health advocates are urging a multi-pronged strategy, including:
- Expansion of public rehab infrastructure
- Integrated psychiatric and addiction care
- State-wide awareness and early intervention campaigns
- Policy reforms to regulate alcohol and curb drug trafficking
- Education on addiction in schools and colleges
Government Yet to Announce Comprehensive Plan
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane told the Assembly that a comprehensive state mental health and de-addiction plan is under review and budget allocations will be increased. However, critics argue that mere statements are not enough.
“We need a war-room approach. This is not about law and order—it’s a public health emergency,” said MLA Aleixo Sequeira.
A State at a Crossroads
As Goa continues to attract millions of tourists annually, it is also battling a shadow crisis. Addiction is robbing young lives, tearing apart families, and overwhelming public health systems.
User @Hey__Shonaaa, based in Dubai, posted on X: “What once was paradise is now stained by neglect. Addiction spreads faster than prevention. Families are left to fight alone while the state avoids confrontation.”
Goa must now decide whether to remain just a party destination or reclaim its identity as a community that cares for its people.
