To address the alarming rise in drug abuse in Punjab and its devastating impact on women, the National Commission for Women (NCW) is set to launch a series of awareness campaigns across the state. The effort, in collaboration with Panjab University, Chandigarh, will focus on empowering women, providing support services, and creating community resilience against substance abuse.
The inaugural program will take place on January 24 (Friday) at Panjab University, with Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar leading the event. This marks a significant step toward combating a crisis that has deeply affected families, with women often bearing the brunt of the fallout through domestic violence, economic instability, and health challenges.
NCW chairperson Rahatkar emphasized the critical need for a gender-sensitive approach to tackle drug abuse. “The drug menace is not just a health issue — it is a social crisis that disproportionately affects women. We must come together to empower and support women who are enduring the repercussions of this crisis in their homes and communities,” she said.
The campaign will initially target eight districts in Punjab, identified as high-risk areas for drug abuse. Through a combination of educational programs, support services, and community engagement, the NCW aims to raise awareness, provide resources, and foster resilience among women impacted by substance abuse.
Following the inauguration, the NCW will host a ‘Jan Sunwai’ (public hearing) at the UT Guest House, Chandigarh — allowing women complainants to voice their grievances directly to the chairperson and seek support from the Commission. This open dialogue is designed to address issues ranging from domestic violence to social stigma, offering a lifeline to women in distress.
In addition, Rahatkar will visit the Model Jail in Chandigarh to gain insight into the challenges faced by incarcerated women, many of whom are victims of substance abuse or related crimes.
The NCW’s partnership with Panjab University will leverage academic expertise and local networks to create impactful campaigns. These programs will include workshops, counseling sessions, and resource distribution, equipping women with the tools they need to combat the challenges posed by drug abuse.
The growing drug abuse crisis in Punjab has become a pressing issue that requires urgent intervention. By addressing the intersection of drug addiction and women’s well-being, the NCW’s initiative underscored the importance of a collective response to a problem that transcends health, impacting the social and economic fabric of communities.