Youth who were once mired in drug addiction are now poised to become architects of Punjab’s bright future! This is not a dream, but the ground reality of the Punjab government’s ambitious “War Against Drugs” campaign.
Ludhiana: Youth who were once mired in drug addiction are now poised to become architects of Punjab’s bright future! This isn’t a dream, but the ground reality of the Punjab government’s ambitious “War Against Drugs” campaign. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s government has not only cracked down on drug traffickers but has also paved the way for respect and self-employment for our youth who have quit drugs.
Bad times have fallen on drug traffickers in Punjab. Following Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s direct and strict orders, the decisive war against drugs in the state, “War Against Drugs,” has completed nine months and is showing significant results. Since March 1, 2025, the Punjab Police has taken record action, registering 26,256 cases and arresting 38,687 drug traffickers. During this period, a significant amount of narcotics, including over 1,714 kilograms of heroin, has been seized. These statistics demonstrate that the government remains committed to its zero-tolerance policy and is fully prepared to eradicate the drug menace.
Don’t slip back into addiction
Along with strict action, the government is pursuing a dual strategy combining reform and employment. In this regard, the Ludhiana district administration, with the support of the Dairy Development and Health departments, has launched a special 10-day skills training program at the government rehabilitation center in Jagraon. This initiative aims to provide sustainable earning opportunities to young people undergoing drug addiction treatment, preventing them from falling back into the trap of drug addiction for money.
Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain described this initiative as a major and humanitarian step towards holistic rehabilitation. He stated clearly, “We are ensuring that anyone who overcomes addiction doesn’t slip back into addiction due to poverty or lack of work.” With this in mind, Deputy Director of the Dairy Development Department, Surinder Singh, provided practical training to youth on dairy farming and related activities on the inaugural day.
return to the mainstream with dignity
Officials believe these skills will help recovering individuals start their own businesses and become financially independent, ensuring their recovery. After completing the training, those who qualify will be provided with bank loans and financial assistance under government schemes to set up small dairy units. This initiative is being overseen by key officials, including Civil Surgeon Dr. Ramandeep Kaur, Lead District Manager Gurdev Singh Kang, and Center Incharge Dr. Vivek Goyal.
The Punjab government believes that skill development can be a new avenue for recovery. This program goes beyond simply teaching skills; it also provides youth with the confidence they need to return to mainstream society with dignity. When they have stable work, they are less likely to turn to compulsions or addictions. This initiative not only improves their lives but also breaks the cycle of addiction and gives them a new identity.
Punjab to be rechristened as Rangla Punjab
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the Punjab government has demonstrated its resolve. It has not only taken strict action against drug peddlers, but has also shown sensitivity towards young people who have fallen prey to drug addiction. It is the government’s responsibility to provide a secure future for its children, and recognizing this responsibility, it has fought a decisive battle to protect them from drug abuse and provide them with the best opportunities to stand on their own feet.
The future of Punjab’s next generation is being secured. When the government takes strong action against drug traffickers (as over 38,000 drug traffickers have been arrested) and also empowers our youth by teaching them skills, providing them with jobs, and leading a life of dignity, it is a significant and positive step for society as a whole. This effort doesn’t stop at just addressing a problem; it is a strong beginning to making Punjab a vibrant, prosperous Punjab once again.
