Chandigarh, March 23: The Bhagwant Mann government’s “Yudh Nashean Virudh” initiative is increasingly focusing on the long-term rehabilitation and employment of individuals recovering from substance abuse. Moving beyond traditional enforcement, the campaign has integrated structured counseling and job placement services to ensure that those who undergo treatment can maintain stable, productive lives within their communities.
Case studies from across the state affirm that financial independence is a critical factor in preventing relapse. Anand Kumar (name changed), a former small business owner who saw his livelihood collapse due to addiction, maintained that regaining a sense of purpose through work was essential to his recovery. After completing a rehabilitation program, he was able to access employment opportunities specifically directed toward recovering individuals, helping him restore both his finances and his social standing.
The AAP government’s approach emphasizes that the fight against drugs must include a path back to normalcy. Educational support is another pillar of this strategy, as seen in the case of Jugraj Singh (name changed), who returned to his studies after receiving counseling. He stated that the support services linked to the anti-drug campaign allowed him to redirect his focus toward his future. Officials declared that the alignment of healthcare with livelihood support is creating a more resilient recovery model for the youth of Punjab.
“Work keeps the mind focused and helps you move forward,” Anand asserted while discussing his reintegration into the workforce. The state government maintained that by providing dignity and discipline through jobs, the cycle of addiction is effectively broken. This structural shift in policy aims to transform recovering individuals into active contributors to the state’s economy, fulfilling the vision of a drug-free and prosperous Punjab.
