The destructive path: Drugs and smoking, the fashion of the modern era.

Who would think that a habit from the past would ever become the world's greatest killer?

An example: The Olsen twins (still one of the most iconic figures of young Hollywood.) Who would have ever thought that these young, pretty girls would become smokers and drug addicts? Who would have ever thought that they would become walking advertisements for cigarette companies and drug sellers, and because of them and various other young icons, the world still wakes up to see their children smoking and using drugs on a daily basis.

Another example, the cool pop singer Amy Winehouse who topped the music charts and is a Grammy award winning singer is now suffering from many health disorders due drugs and smoking weed and tobacco.

Even though we live in a country with conservative ideals, it is surprising to see smoking and drug addiction on the rise. The youth of our country is indulging in such unhealthy activities. Young boys and girls are seen smoking and taking drugs. Even more worrisome is the fact most of these activities take place in school campuses.

Sheesha is made available to children below 18 years in some coffee shops. Some stores sell cigarettes to children below the age of 18.

What's the use of having 'Cigarettes are the main cause for lung and heart disease' printed on every packet when no one cares about it? The young don't care about the damage caused by such dangerous habits. They waste all their pocket money on such harmful products. They fall for it either due to inquisitiveness or influence of bad company.

Measures to overcome smoking:

* Chewing gum is a good solution to help overcome the problem of smoking.

* Talk to people (parents, adults, a close friend), tell them what you feel and seek advice on how to overcome your addiction

* Stick to people with good habits

Measures to overcome drug addiction:

* More rehabilitation centres should be opened

* Advice should be given and taken with a positive attitude and a will to change the habit

* Parents should check on their child's habit and correct it before it becomes a major problem

The youth of today is the future of tomorrow. If they continue to indulge in such practices, what is going to happen tomorrow?

Is the future of our country secure? Are we ever going to see a day when no one is seen smoking or using drugs?

Ensa, Nicole and Hardeep