RISE IN ALCOCHOL INTAKE AMONG INDIAN TEENAGERS, SAYS STUDY

By P. Vijian

NEW DELHI, Oct 19 (Bernama) -- A study by a top trade body has revealed that
alcohol intake among teenagers in Indian metropolitans are rising due to the
change in socio-economic settings.

According to a recent survey by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry
of India (Assocham), the absent of parents, easy money and rise in stress and
depression were pushing youngsters into drinking.

"More and more young Indians are resorting to alcohol these days due to the
growing liberated society, easy spending power and wide availability of brands
to choose from,"said D. S Rawat, secretary general of Assocham.

More than 2,000 teenagers, aged between 15 and 19, interviewed by Assocham's
Social Development Foundation said they initially tried alcohol to be at par
with their peer groups.

But others also admitted that they resorted to alcohol because they felt that
the intoxicating effect of the drink swayed them away from the tensions of daily
life.

Most youths viewed drinking as a fun pastime, one that replaces lack of after
school activities.

The survey was conducted between July to September in major cities-- Delhi,
Hyderabad Mumbai and Cochin.
-- BERNAMA