Just one psychiatrist in government sector in Muktsar district

There is only one psychiatrist working in the government sector in Muktsar district. However, nearly 30,000 addicts are registered across 19 outpatient opioid assisted treatment (OOAT) clinics.

Sources said this psychiatrist is posted at the Muktsar Civil Hospital but is also given additional charge of Malout for two days a week.

Although there is one more psychiatrist, she is posted as the Senior Medical Officer (SMO) of Gidderbaha Civil Hospital and is unable to perform the duties of a psychiatrist due to her administrative responsibilities.

The district has one de-addiction center in the government sector at Malout, and eight private de-addiction centers. Additionally, there is one rehabilitation center in the government sector at Thehri village near Malout town, which, however, has failed to serve its purpose since its inauguration in 2015, mainly due to its remote location.

A senior doctor said that the higher authorities were aware of the situation, and the state government was now preparing to engage private psychiatrists for government de-addiction centers across the state to help bridge the gap in mental health services.

Notably, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav has set a deadline of May 31 to eradicate the drug menace from the state. The state government’s ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ (war against drugs) campaign is also underway, aiming to reduce drug abuse and ensure better access to treatment and rehabilitation.