Minister Balbir Singh : The Health Department, Punjab Police, and Alliance India join forces to combat drug abuse.
Minister Balbir Singh : In a significant step towards tackling Punjab’s drug issue under the guidance of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, a Stakeholder Consultation was held to explore ways to empower women in the fight against drug abuse.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Balbir Singh chaired the workshop virtually, with psychiatrists from each district, Punjab Police representatives, and various NGOs participating in the session held at the Directorate of Health Services on Tuesday.
Minister Balbir Singh highlighted the crucial role women can play in combating drug abuse, stating, “Women can make a significant impact by supporting family members affected by drug addiction and guiding them towards rehabilitation services.”
He also emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the state government has been taking decisive action against drug traffickers and suppliers. He stressed the importance of rehabilitation programs to help prevent the youth from falling into the trap of drug abuse.
Minister Balbir Singh concluded by urging all stakeholders to unite in the effort to make Punjab a drug-free state and bring to life Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s vision of a ‘Rangla Punjab.’
Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Community Affairs Division Gurpreet Kaur Deo announced that Punjab Police would launch an outreach initiative to engage women and encourage them to play an active role in the fight against drugs. “We believe women can be a powerful force in tackling the drug issue, and we aim to empower them for this purpose,” she said.
Director of Health Services Dr. Hitinder Kaur instructed Civil Surgeons, Psychiatrists, and drug de-addiction service providers to prioritize integrated health services and ensure women’s involvement in the process.
Dr. Sandeep Bhola, Assistant Director and State Mental Health Officer, along with Dr. Manju Bansal and Kunal Kishore from Alliance India, emphasized the importance of women’s participation in the anti-drug campaign. “Women can offer crucial support to individuals affected by drug addiction and help guide them toward rehabilitation services,” he noted.