Punjab Government Is Working On A Mission Mode To Curb The Drug Menace In The State

The drug menace in Punjab has been rampant cutting across caste, gender and age. The problem, which has resulted in the loss of lives, unemployment and countless parents losing their young children, continues to haunt families. However, there has been a decline in cases since Congress's Captain Amarinder Singh came to power in the state. Countless steps have been taken to counter the problem by the government and widespread awareness spread. 

Many arrests have been made and supply routes choked. A Special Task Force has been established to tackle the problem. Over 34,000 cases have been registered and over 42,000 people have been arrested. Even policemen have been arrested for suspicion in abetting drug activities.

Almost 1000 kilograms of heroin has been recovered apart from other drugs.

Students have been educated on the effects of drugs as well with an initiative called ‘Buddy Programme'. The programme aims to cover 40 lakh students in the state and over seven lakh students are already learning more about the issue. Over five lakh volunteers too are a part of the massive anti-drug abuse movement.

Around 2.5 Lakh drug addicts are being treated in Punjab. There is even a permanent ban on hookah bars in the state.

CCTVs at all check posts also ensure smuggling of drugs is kept in check.

Recently, Captain Amarinder Singh assured the Punjab Assembly that his government would not allow any movie which promotes drugs and violence in the state. Even though the matter comes under the Censor Board, Captain Singh said he would write to it on the matter.

Movies are an efficient marketing machine that promotes drug trade in the state. The state's music industry is replete with songs about drugs and is on everyone's playlists. Glorifying drugs in songs has gone on for years. The Hindi movie ‘Udta Punjab' is a classic example to show how drugs are advertised through music in Punjab. A culture commission also keeps a check on songs that glorify drugs in songs.

Addicts in Punjab range from teens, unemployed youth, housewives and debt-ridden farmers. They may be from villages or big cities. And the faster the drug menace stops, the better for the state.