Dr. Kawal Deep Kour: Redefining the Narrative Around Substance Abuse

The Beginning of a Deeply Personal Mission

For Dr. Kawal Deep Kour, her journey into the field of narcotics research wasn't just a career choice—it was a personal calling. A Narcotics Research Scientist specializing in Prevention and Policy at the Institute for Narcotics Studies and Analysis, New Delhi, Dr. Kour’s professional pursuit is rooted in a profound personal tragedy. Having witnessed the devastating effects of drug abuse in her own family, she was drawn to understand the deeper issues surrounding addiction, stigma, and the silence that envelops affected individuals and families.

Over the last 17+ years, she has dedicated her life to exploring the intricate challenges of substance abuse, with the unwavering goal of crafting meaningful solutions and advocating for informed policies. Her work is not just about data and research—it is about stories, people, and transformative impact.

Building Her Own Road

Unlike many who trace their success to role models, Dr. Kour boldly states that she carved her own path. “I strongly believe I am alone responsible for my growth, development, and success,” she says with quiet confidence. Her academic journey, including a Ph.D. from IIT Guwahati and her thesis titled ‘History of Intoxication: Opium in Assam, 1800–1959’, laid a solid foundation for her professional pursuit. The publication of two more books on opium in 2023 and her consecutive Best Paper Awards at the International Forum for Drug Policy in 2022 and 2023, reflect not just excellence but relentless perseverance.

But the most significant turning point in her journey wasn’t an award or a publication—it was her conscious decision to prioritize self-care. In a field that demands immense emotional and intellectual investment, learning to care for herself, she says, made her stronger and more purposeful. “Now, I am better equipped to support those around me,” she reflects.

Challenges on the Ground

Working with communities around sensitive topics like drug use often means confronting resistance, fear, and silence. “It’s been a challenge to engage with community members, build trust, and promote awareness,” Dr. Kour admits. However, this resistance has never deterred her. Instead, it strengthened her resolve to promote education and break the silence around addiction.

Her work often takes her into the heart of affected communities, where every conversation matters and every breakthrough counts. Despite the challenges, she remains grounded in the belief that positive change is possible through empathy, consistency, and clear communication.

A Philosophy Rooted in Curiosity and Compassion

At the core of Dr. Kour’s work is a belief in the power of innovation, creativity, and continuous learning. In a field as complex and evolving as drug policy and addiction research, staying curious is not optional—it’s essential. She constantly seeks out new knowledge, challenges existing norms, and advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration.

But beyond intellect, it is kindness, compassion, and empathy that guide her daily work. She emphasizes that these human values are the real game-changers in any community-driven endeavor.

Research, Disruption, and the Path Forward

Currently, Dr. Kour is involved in an exploratory study that aims to disrupt illicit drug markets—an ambitious project that combines field research, policy analysis, and systems thinking. The study aims to understand the vulnerabilities within these markets and develop practical, evidence-based strategies for intervention.

But her vision extends far beyond this. In the coming years, she envisions setting up a dedicated research centre focused on substance abuse and addiction—an interdisciplinary hub for learning, research, and real-world impact. Her dream is to create a space that not only generates data and policy insights but also actively engages with affected communities, healthcare providers, and educators.

Balancing It All with Grace

Dr. Kour candidly acknowledges that maintaining balance is an evolving challenge. “I adjust my approach as needed,” she says. Her ability to remain flexible, adapt to changing circumstances, and focus on continuous improvement helps her juggle the demands of a rigorous profession with the realities of personal life.

And what keeps her going? A deep-rooted belief in human resilience. “Everyone deserves a chance to overcome their struggles and live a fulfilling life,” she says. This sense of purpose is what drives her forward, even on the toughest days.

Words to Live By

In her message to young women, Dr. Kour offers three simple yet powerful words—“Eat, Love, Pray.” This succinct mantra captures her philosophy of self-nourishment, connection, and inner strength.

She also leaves readers with a compelling piece of poetry that mirrors her indomitable spirit:

“Shaakhon se toot jaayen vo patte nahin hain ham,
Aandhi se koi kah de ki auqaat mein rahe.”

It’s a line that reflects her grit, her resilience, and her unwavering defiance in the face of adversity.

The Legacy She’s Creating

Dr. Kawal Deep Kour is not merely a researcher or a scientist—she is a curator with a clear purpose. Through her work, she is not just analyzing data or writing policy—she is shifting narratives, challenging stigma, and redefining the future of addiction research in India.

Her journey reminds us that even in the face of personal loss, one can channel pain into purpose. And through compassion, curiosity, and courage, it’s possible to create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the confines of research labs and policy rooms—into the lives of people who need change the most.