Minister visits drug de-addiction centre at hospital, reviews drive

Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Balbir Singh on Sunday visited the de-addiction and rehabilitation centre at the local Civil Hospital.

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Accompanied by MLA Ashok Parashar Pappi, the minister highlighted the state government’s initiative, ‘Yudh Nasheya Viruddh’ campaign, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, which is aimed at making the state drug-free. Under the initiative, the Health Department was enhancing treatment facilities for individuals struggling with drug addiction.

Dr Singh emphasised that the state government was committed to reintegrating treated individuals into society. It would be achieved through de-addiction centres, which would also provide vocational training to aid in their employment. He noted that facilities such as sports venues and libraries would also be augmented across the state to channel the energy of these individuals in a positive direction.

Furthermore, the minister announced that the state government plans to implement narcotic support groups at ward and village levels. These groups will support individuals who have successfully overcome addiction, helping to prevent relapse.

During his visit, the minister also interacted with those receiving treatment at the de-addiction centre, encouraging them to avoid falling into the drug trap after completing their treatment. He also mentioned plans for a new 1000-bed super speciality hospital. The hospital will operate on a hybrid model, providing 500 beds free of charge for underprivileged patients. Additionally, he revealed that two new medical colleges are also being established in Ludhiana to further enhance local medical facilities.