7 April, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)
In a significant move to combat drug addiction and promote youth rehabilitation in Punjab, Governor of Punjab Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria visited the Swami Vivekananda Drug De-addiction and Rehabilitation Center in Amritsar today.
The Governor is currently undertaking an 8-day Walkathon titled ‘Yudh Nasheyan Virudh Padyatra’ (War Against Drugs), raising awareness across the state about the urgent need to eradicate drug abuse.
On second last day of his Walkathon he reviewed the operations of the Skill Centre run by Sun Foundation which provides vocational training and job placements for former drug victims.
Impressed with the holistic rehabilitation model, Sh. Kataria lauded the initiative stating, “It is not enough to simply free our youth from the clutches of drug addiction what is equally critical is their rehabilitation through skill development and sustainable employment. Sun Foundation’s model of combining de-addiction with livelihood opportunities is a commendable and much-needed approach.”
The Governor also toured various vocational labs including Plumbing, Commis Chef, Electrician, and Computer Training Labs, and interacted with successfully rehabilitated youth who are now contributing meaningfully to society.
Responding to the Governor’s appeal to expand such efforts in the border belt of Punjab, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney, who is the Chairman of Sun Foundation announced the establishment of multiple Skill Centers for Drug De-addiction and Rehabilitation in the region.
Dr. Sahney stated that Border districts are especially vulnerable to drug infiltration and its ill effects on youth. Providing these young individuals with employable skills and dignified job opportunities is the key to long-term social reform.
Dr. Sahney also appreciated the Governor’s unwavering commitment towards the fight against drugs and assured full support from Sun Foundation. He further urged the Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar to identify suitable villages within a week to initiate the process of setting up new skill centers. “We are determined to transform Punjab’s border belt into a hub of skilled, self-reliant youth who lead by example,” he added.
