Under its ongoing campaign ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ (War Against Drugs), the Punjab government has taken a series of major decisions aimed at improving treatment and rehabilitation for drug-affected individuals. The Anti-Drug Cabinet Sub-Committee, chaired by senior ministers, has announced strategic reforms to strengthen the de-addiction infrastructure and workforce across the state.
Punjab Government Steps Up Fight Against Drugs
🔹 Temporary Recruitment of 200 Psychologists: To ensure proper counselling and psychological support for patients, the government will immediately recruit 200 psychologists on a temporary basis. Within six months, these positions will be converted into permanent roles.
🔹 Infrastructure Upgrade with 1,000 Beds: The state will upgrade its public healthcare infrastructure by adding 1,000 beds dedicated to de-addiction services. Additionally, arrangements for 1,000 more beds will be made in private institutions to meet the rising demand.
🔹 Honorarium for Mental Health Specialists: A panel of expert psychiatrists will be created, and these specialists will receive an honorarium of ₹1,500 per hour for their services, ensuring that patients get access to qualified mental health care.
🔹 Recruitment of Nurses and Paramedical Staff: The Health Department will soon begin the recruitment process for nurses and paramedical personnel to support the expanded services. This is part of the broader effort to strengthen the human resources in de-addiction and rehabilitation centres.
Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, while sharing the update
Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, while sharing the update, reiterated the government’s commitment to rehabilitating affected individuals with compassion and medical care, rather than punitive measures alone. The move is expected to improve the success rate of de-addiction programs and offer a dignified path to recovery for thousands in Punjab.
