Punjab, a state grappling with the devastating grip of drug abuse, took a historic step on Friday towards reclaiming its future as the Governor Banwarilal Purohit inaugurated the ‘Nasha Mukt-Rangla Punjab Campaign’ on Gurparab. The campaign, launched on the martyrdom day of the Sikhs’ ninth Guru, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji, seeks to address the alarming drug crisis through a multi-pronged approach, fostering awareness, unity, and grassroots action.
The initiative is part of the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’, a national campaign spearheaded by the Union Ministry of Social Justice, and is designed to create a collaborative framework involving state governments, educational institutions, social welfare organizations, and local communities.
Recognizing the urgency of the problem, the Governor called for collective resolve and active participation from every segment of society. “Drug addiction is not just an individual’s battle; it is a societal issue. Together, we can and must overcome it,” he remarked.
A key highlight of the campaign is the ‘People’s Walk Against Drugs’, organized in collaboration with the Red Cross Society and led by renowned social worker and writer Khushwant Singh. The walk aims to galvanize communities across Punjab, spreading awareness and instilling hope. Scheduled to begin on December 10 from Beas, the birthplace of legendary runner Sardar Fauja Singh, the walk will culminate at the Jang-e-Azadi Memorial in Kartarpur on December 11. Along its route, participants will visit various villages, engaging residents with inspiring stories and messages of resilience.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor emphasized the pivotal role of women in building a drug-free Punjab. “Women are the backbone of society. Their influence within families can act as a powerful deterrent against drug addiction,” he stated. Citing studies, he highlighted that up to 80 percent of drug-related problems can be mitigated through proactive engagement by mothers and caregivers. He urged the women to foster open communication and trust with their children to identify and address early signs of distress.
The campaign also delves into the root causes of drug addiction, such as unemployment, academic failures, and emotional stress. The Governor called on parents to nurture strong bonds with their children, spend quality time together, and guide them toward healthier coping mechanisms. He also highlighted the critical role of educational institutions in this battle, urging them to conduct regular awareness campaigns and incorporate sports activities to promote physical and mental well-being.
The Governor stressed the importance of grassroots movements in tackling the drug menace. “Strict laws and rehabilitation centers are essential, but real change begins at the community level,” he said, urging Panchayats, Anganwadi workers, schools, and self-help groups to lead local initiatives. The campaign plans to mobilize these grassroots entities to dismantle local drug networks, enhance vigilance, and create a robust support system for affected individuals.
One of the campaign’s critical focuses is addressing the external threats contributing to Punjab’s drug crisis, particularly along its border with Pakistan. The Governor underscored the need for enhanced border vigilance to curb the influx of narcotics and dismantle transnational drug cartels. He also commended law enforcement agencies for their efforts in cracking down on local drug suppliers.
The campaign’s timing — coinciding with Guruparab — was described by the Governor as deeply symbolic. “The teachings of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji inspire us to uphold courage and sacrifice. Let us honour his legacy by striving to build a Punjab free from the clutches of drugs,” he said.
The Nasha Mukt-Rangla Punjab Campaign also aims to leverage cultural and religious events to amplify its message. The Governor invited all citizens to participate in the concluding days of the People’s Walk Against Drugs, asserting that such initiatives could ignite a mass movement against drug addiction.
