Chandigarh-Addressing a press conference at the Aam Aadmi Party’s office, Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh outlined the state government’s relentless efforts to combat the drug menace under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal. He highlighted the government’s multi-pronged approach, which integrates stringent law enforcement with rehabilitation, healthcare, and community participation to eradicate drugs from Punjab.
Dr. Balbir Singh revealed that since the campaign’s launch, the Punjab Police, in coordination with other departments, has intensified its crackdown on drug traffickers. He shared that over 1, 955 FIRs have been registered, leading to the arrest of 3, 293 individuals involved in drug-related activities. The government has confiscated substantial quantities of illegal substances, including 116 kilograms of heroin, 1, 260 kilograms of poppy husk, and 31 kilograms of ganja, along with seizing drug money and demolishing illegal properties. He further informed that 44 traffickers have been injured in police retaliatory action so far.
The Health Minister underscored the importance of community involvement in the fight against drugs. Starting April 1, every village in Punjab will establish a Health Committee comprising 15 members, including women, retired army personnel, teachers, and NGO representatives. These committees will actively monitor community health and work towards making villages drug-free. The government is also employing advanced anti-drone technology in Tarn Taran to curb cross-border drug trafficking and has mapped drug hotspots to facilitate targeted interventions.
Dr. Balbir Singh elaborated on the government’s efforts to strengthen rehabilitation infrastructure. He informed that Punjab now has 36 government-run and 177 private de-addiction centers. Since February 24, 988 new patients have registered at the government's OOAT de-addiction centres and 3, 971 new patients have been registered in private rehabilitation centers across Punjab, reflecting the government's commitment to providing comprehensive care for individuals struggling with addiction.
Dr Balbir shared data that the occupancy rates at these centers have increased significantly from 20% to over 70%, showcasing the growing public trust in the government’s initiatives. To further enhance services, specialized training programs for doctors, nurses, and counselors are being conducted in collaboration with AIIMS. This holistic approach ensures that young individuals receive both medical care and the tools necessary for a brighter future.
The Health Minister also spoke about the government’s focus on skill development and employment for rehabilitated individuals. He highlighted partnerships with industries, IITs, and Agricultural University, which have enabled the launch of skill training programs in areas such as plumbing, electrical work, and farming-related activities like mushroom and dragon fruit cultivation. Loans ranging from ₹5 lakhs to ₹25 lakhs, along with government subsidies, are being provided to support rehabilitated individuals in starting their ventures and leading dignified lives.
Dr. Balbir Singh expressed concern over the rising prevalence of vaping and e-cigarettes among youth. He called on the Union Ministry to regulate online pharmacies and enforce a ban on energy drinks in schools. He emphasized that awareness campaigns and strict monitoring are being conducted to protect children and young adults from falling into the trap of such harmful habits.
Concluding the press conference, Dr. Balbir Singh reaffirmed the Punjab Government’s unwavering commitment to creating a drug-free Punjab. He stated that the campaign, blending stringent enforcement with community-driven initiatives, reflects the Aam Aadmi Party’s determination to safeguard the health, safety, and future of Punjab’s youth.