**4. Conclusion**

The study has emphasized the escalating incidence of substance abuse among slum children in Ahmednagar, pressing need of initiating programs for prevention and treatment in slum areas. The subject needs to be dealt in a comprehensive manner. There is need for availability of specialized treatment services for children who are using substances. These facilities should be available in government hospitals. The settings in which the facilities are delivered should be child sensitive and safe. Treatment programs must attempt to include the family in treatment and address the family issues as a part of the remedy. Rehabilitation of children should focus on skill building and vocational training. Substance abuse by children has detrimental impact on their physical, psychological, social and mental well-being hence needs immediate intervention. Rehabilitation of children abusing illicit substances is the necessity of the hour.
