Malout, September 16, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Cabinet Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development Dr Baljit Kaur on Wednesday called for active participation from all sections of society to strengthen the state government’s campaign against drugs, as the flagship ‘Yudh Nasheyan Virudh’ (War Against Drugs) campaign gained further momentum at a state-level awareness programme in Malout.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Dr Baljit Kaur said eliminating drugs from Punjab required collective efforts and sustained public cooperation. She said the government was combining strict action against drug peddlers with awareness, rehabilitation and youth engagement to address the problem at the grassroots level.
She said anti-drug committees had been constituted at village and urban levels, while the police were maintaining the confidentiality of informants. Strict action was also being taken against drug smugglers, including confiscation of illegal properties and demolition of unauthorised constructions linked to drug-related activities.
Emphasising the role of young people, the minister said Punjab’s youth had brought recognition to the state and the country through their contribution to the defence services, sports, agriculture and other fields. She urged them to become ambassadors of a healthy and progressive Punjab and support friends struggling with drug use through care and encouragement.
Dr Baljit Kaur also appealed to parents, teachers, Panchayats, youth clubs and social organisations to play an active role in the anti-drug campaign.
She said the government was working to channelise the energy of youth towards constructive activities. Around 3,000 sports grounds were being developed across Punjab, while initiatives such as ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Dian’ and ‘Mukh Mantri Gym’ were encouraging healthier lifestyles.
During the programme, the minister distributed more than 100 sports kits containing hockey, football, volleyball and cricket equipment among villages and wards in the Malout Assembly constituency. She also honoured ‘Drug De-addiction Mitras’, including Anganwadi workers, with appreciation certificates for their contribution to drug-awareness efforts.
Cultural performances highlighted the harmful effects of drug abuse. The play ‘Aao Koshish Kariye’ was staged under the direction of Surinder Kaur and theatre personality Kirti Kripal. Students of PM Shri Government School presented Malwai Giddha and choreography performances, while Maria delivered a message promoting a drug-free society through a solo dance.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Devi Goyal, SDM Pankaj Kumar, Punjab Cooperative Bank Chairman Jagdev Singh Bam, District Planning Committee Chairman Sukhjinder Singh Kauni, Market Committee Malout Chairman Jashan Brar and Chairman Simarjeet Singh Lakhewali were among those present. District officials, representatives of social organisations and youth clubs, police and civil administration officials, and local residents also attended the programme.
Dr Baljit Kaur administered an anti-drug pledge to youth, sportspersons, members of Yudh Clubs and other dignitaries, reaffirming their commitment to a healthy, prosperous and drug-free Punjab.
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