Chandigarh, Oct 14: The Punjab government has advanced its ongoing anti-drug campaign, Yudh Nashean Virudh, into a decisive phase by combining law enforcement efforts with mental health awareness and youth engagement across the state.
As part of this holistic strategy, state departments and technical support units organized a specialized panel discussion at Rayat Bahra University to mark World Mental Health Day, bringing together health experts, influencers, and students. Key speakers maintained that substance abuse extends beyond physical dependence to involve emotional and social pressures, emphasizing that early intervention, mental health counseling, and family support play a vital role in preventing youth addiction.
To further catalyze public participation, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann flagged off the state-wide “Punjab Against Drugs” bikers’ rally from Chappar Chiri in Fatehgarh Sahib, embarking on a route that covers all twenty-three districts. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister affirmed that eradicating drug abuse requires a collective movement involving citizens, educational institutions, and families alongside government actions. Officials stated that educational programs, training fellowships, and community outreach will continue across universities and colleges to build support networks for vulnerable youth.
