Chandigarh, January 12 : Drug Addiction :  The Punjab Raj Bhavan hosted a significant dialogue aimed at making Punjab drug-free. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders. These included Dharm Gurus, educationists, industrialists, and agriculture experts. It also involved progressive farmers, scientists, and former players. Additionally, senior advocates, artists, and folk singers were present. Writers, doctors, and social activists also participated. The event took place at Punjab Raj Bhavan, Chandigarh. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria presided over it. He emphasized the need for a united and consistent fight against drug abuse. This fight is crucial to safeguard the state’s future generations.

Governor Kataria shared his views on the occasion.

Governor Kataria shared his views on the occasion. He expressed grave concern over the growing drug menace. The proliferation of synthetic drugs is causing irreversible harm to the youth. He highlighted that drug addiction has evolved from the occasional use of natural substances. These substances were once considered socially unacceptable. Now, drug addiction has become a thriving international trade.Anti-social elements seeking monetary gain drive it, leading the youth astray onto the path of destruction. The Governor stressed that the drug problem extends beyond Punjab. It has become a national crisis. Northern states are disproportionately affected. He highlighted Pakistan’s role in waging a proxy war against India. They are flooding drugs into the country. This specifically targets the youth and weakens India’s social fabric.

Drug Addiction  : emphasized the importance of collective action

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji made immense sacrifices for the greater good. He sacrificed his father, mother, and four sons. Quoting these noble examples, the Governor urged everyone to draw inspiration. He encouraged people to commit themselves wholeheartedly to root out the drug scourge. governor emphasized the importance of collective action. He called for a multi-pronged strategy involving every section of society. Governor Kataria made a special appeal to Dharam Gurus to take a leading role in the fight against drugs. Highlighting their immense influence over their followers, he urged them to launch ground-level campaigns. He asked them to use their platforms during religious congregations. They should also incorporate anti-drug messages in their discourses. He emphasized that their active involvement could bring about a transformative impact and radical change in society.

Governor announced plans for follow-up meetings

The Governor reiterated his full commitment to the cause. He assured full support from Punjab Raj Bhavan in implementing actionable solutions discussed during the dialogue. He exhorted everyone to treat this fight as a war for the survival and prosperity of future generations. The Governor announced plans for follow-up meetings. These meetings and events will monitor progress. They will ensure accountability in the fight against drugs. He appealed to social activists and community leaders. They should organize neighborhood-level initiatives. These initiatives should engage families in the fight against drugs. Rajya Sabha Member Satnam Singh Sandhu presented his views on the sensitive issue of drug abuse in Punjab. He thanked everyone for their active participation. He also appreciated their meaningful contributions to this vital discussion. sandhu emphasized that the session provided valuable insights and diverse perspectives. It deepened our understanding of the root causes of drug abuse and explored actionable solutions to combat this menace. Sandhu also shared his discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister has shown great concern about the drug problem in Punjab. He remarked that the Prime Minister is deeply committed to eradicating this menace. He is willing to implement any necessary measures to save Punjab from the clutches of drug addiction.

Punjab faced many such crises in the past

Former Takht Damdama Sahib Jathedar Giani Kewal Singh expressed his concern over the issue of drug abuse. He said that Punjab faced many such crises in the past. Punjab has always come out stronger. He called upon all Punjabis to come forward unitedly on the ground to win this war against drugs. Justice retd. KS Alhuwalia, presenting his views on the occasion, said that we need to sensitize our youth. They should not let the glorified picture presented by the market-oriented world sway them. Instead, they should strengthen moral values.

urgent need to dismantle the nexus between drug mafias

During the dialogue, participants shared their views and proposed a detailed, multi-layered approach to tackle the drug crisis. Laying emphasis on the urgent need to dismantle the nexus between drug mafias, corrupt officials, and politicians to curb the supply of drugs, they were of the view that Schools, colleges, workplaces, and community centers should launch comprehensive awareness campaigns.These campaigns aim to educate people about the devastating effects of drug abuse.

Setting up accessible diagnostic centers and rehabilitation facilities

Besides, law enforcement agencies need advanced tools and training. This will help them identify and crack down on drug trafficking networks. Setting up accessible diagnostic centers and rehabilitation facilities was also emphasized to ensure timely intervention and recovery for addicts. It was suggested to incorporate moral and value-based education in school curriculums. This aims to instill a strong sense of ethics and discipline among students from a young age.

problem cannot be solved by government efforts alone.

The initiative highlighted encouraging youth participation in sports, arts, and cultural activities as a way to channel their energy positively. It also stressed the importance of this approach as a significant measure to wean them away from harmful substances in the war against drugs. 4o mini The dialogue concluded with a strong consensus. There is a need for a united and sustained effort to combat the drug menace. Participants agreed that the problem cannot be solved by government efforts alone. It requires active involvement from all sections of society.