The Role of Horticulture in Preventing the Expansion of Narcotics

چکیده

Abstract

The expansion of cultivation, production, and consumption of opium is considered one of the serious social and economic problems in Afghanistan, leaving widespread negative consequences on the country’s economic, social, and environmental structures. Many families, due to poverty and the lack of suitable economic alternatives, resort to cultivating narcotic plants. In this context, horticulture, as one of the key branches of agriculture, with its high potential for job creation, income generation, food security improvement, and the promotion of a healthy production culture, can be a suitable option for reducing dependence on opium cultivation. This research has been conducted using a descriptive-analytical method based on library sources and domestic and international scientific articles. Its aim is to examine the capacities of horticulture as a practical strategy to reduce the cultivation and consumption of opium in Afghanistan. The findings of the study show that investing in horticultural development, providing technical training to farmers, creating markets for horticultural products, and the support of governmental and non-governmental institutions can lead to improved livelihoods, poverty reduction, and consequently, reduced motivation for opium production. Overall, sustainable horticultural development, as a multidimensional plan in the field of economic, social and environmental welfare, plays an effective role in preventing the expansion of opium cultivation and requires targeted planning and support from policymakers. Keywords: Alternative Cultivation, Horticulture, Opium Prevention, Sustainable Development