Minister meets NGOs to discuss Mullanpur de-addiction centre

Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh today met members of 35 NGOs to discuss the centre of excellence for drug de-addiction and skill development project which is being built in Mullanpur in collaboration with NGOs. The minister said apart from saving addicts from drug abuse, the centre would also help them develop skills which would allow them to have a better livelihood. Cabinet minister stated that the aim for holding the meeting was to improve coordination and to get feedback from the members.

Addressing concern regarding Covid-19, the minister said there was no cause for concern. He added that the situation was completely under control and that the state was well-equipped to tackle any situation. The Minister advised people, especially those suffering with comorbidities, to avoid stepping out as a precautionary measure.

He also stressed upon ‘Har Shukarwar Dengue te Vaar’ campaign, under which residents were being sensitised regarding the importance of keeping their surroundings clean and dry to prevent mosquito-breeding. He also urged residents to wear full-sleeve shirts as an additional protective measure against aedes mosquito, which was known to bite during the daytime. Highlighting the state-wide efforts to curb the spread of vector-borne diseases under the campaign, he said nearly 20,000 Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers were actively inspecting homes every Friday. These workers were tasked with identifying dengue larvae and educating communities on preventive steps.