Psychologists being recruited for treatment of addicts: Punjab Health Minister

Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh said the Cabinet Sub-Committee on “War against Drugs” has taken the decision to recruit 200 psychologists on temporary basis for six months to establish a strong system for the treatment of recovering drug addicts. The Health Department has been tasked to ensure permanent recruitment in the meantime.

Singh was in the city to conduct a surprise check at the Government De-Addiction and Rehabilitation Centre at Brahman Majra Sirhind.

Speaking on the occasion, he said private psychiatrists will also be empaneled in various districts to provide necessary support to the people trying to quit drugs and they will be paid at the rate of Rs 3,000 for two hours per day.

The minister said the government has launched a campaign to eradicate drugs, which is getting full support from the people and a large number of addicts are voluntarily coming forward for treatment.

Interacting with recovering addicts at the facility, he said the government is taking decisions to ensure a bright future for them. “Vocational courses are being conducted and training is being provided so that after recovery from here, they can be made capable of self-employment,” he said.