Fazilka, September 28:
To further strengthen the Punjab Government’s campaign against drugs at the grassroots level, a special meeting was held under the chairpersonship of Deputy Commissioner Ms. Amarpreeet Kaur Sandhu with officials, members and coordinators of Village Defence Committees, all BDPOs, medical staff from de-addiction centres and police officials. Detailed discussions were held on preparations for launching a comprehensive awareness campaign in every village, publicity, arrangements for funds and organizing village-wise meetings.
Emphasizing the need to take the Punjab Government’s efforts against drugs to the village level with active public participation, Deputy Commissioner Ms. Amarpreeet Kaur Sandhu said that the problem of drug abuse cannot be tackled effectively through the efforts of government departments alone; active participation from every section of society is essential. She said the government’s objective is to keep youth away from drugs and motivate them towards a healthy and productive life. She added that the district administration would make every possible effort to make Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s call for creating a people’s movement against drugs a success.
The Deputy Commissioner said that the government has no shortage of partners in the fight against drugs and that residents of villages, youth, social organizations and Gram Panchayats are coming forward to join the campaign. She directed all BDPOs to provide every possible support for organizing awareness meetings in the villages under their jurisdiction and to prepare village-wise action plans.
The meeting also discussed matters relating to individuals admitted to de-addiction centres. The medical staff shared issues concerning treatment, patients’ requirements and rehabilitation. The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to ensure all necessary support.
Police department officials were also present at the meeting. The Deputy Commissioner directed police officials to take strict and effective action against the illegal sale and supply of drugs and to respond promptly to information received at the village level. She said that the campaign can be given a comprehensive shape only by addressing all aspects together—including awareness, treatment, rehabilitation and prevention of the supply of drugs.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (G) Dr. Mandeep Kaur, SP Mr. Rakesh Kumar and District Coordinator Mr. Navdeep Kandhwal was also present on the occasion.