Yudh Nasheyan Virudh gets support from more than 200 psychiatrists, Impressed by Yudh Nasheyan Virudh campaign started by Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab govt, psychiatrists extended support, Says psychiatrists will be empaneled for part time work in rehab Centres, Suspends Ludhiana Civil Hospital’s Surgeon for taking money from patient’s family after video surfaces
Ludhiana, May 18 (Rajkumar Sathi). Taking a significant step towards addressing the drug addiction crisis under Yudh Nasheyan Virudh campaign, Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh on Sunday announced a collaboration with private psychiatrists to deliver specialised treatment for drug-affected youth. The Association of Psychiatrists (AOP), in collaboration with the Punjab Government, organized an event titled “Saanjhi Raah” (Common Path) at Pal Auditorium, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, today. T
he event was part of the ongoing “Yudh Nasheyan Virudh” (War Against Drugs) campaign led by the state government and served as a collaborative meet between state government officials and psychiatrists from across Punjab. After holding dialogues with private psychiatrists in Punjab Agricultural University, the Health Minister accompanied by Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora, stated that as part of this initiative, private psychiatrists will dedicate two hours daily in nursing institutes where the government has made arrangements of 2000 beds, to treat the individuals struggling with drug addiction. He added that the psychiatrists will be given Rs. 1,500 per hour for their services, ensuring their expertise is accessible to those in need. Further, every jail will have a psychiatrist and offer treatment to the drug affected inmates. Additionally, Dr Balbir Singh mentioned that the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab government is also establishing a highly secure treatment center in each of 23 districts, specifically designed for the rehabilitation of patients with severe addiction issues.
He added that this state-of-the-art facility will provide a safe and controlled environment to support the recovery of serious cases, reinforcing the government’s commitment to tackling the drug menace. Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh emphasized that the top priority is to save Punjab’s youth from the clutches of drug addiction. He said that Drug free and crime free punjab is our shared goal and that is why impressed by Yudh Nasheyan Virudh campaign started by Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab govt, the psychiatrists have extended support. By partnering with private psychiatrists and setting up secure treatment centers, the government is ensuring comprehensive care for those affected. He stated that this initiative reflects Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s vision of a drug-free Punjab. He added that the health department is working closely with experts to formulate a robust de-addiction policy, further strengthening the state’s efforts to provide holistic care and urged all stakeholders to support this mission to rehabilitate and empower Punjab’s youth. Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh lauded MP Arora’s contributions to the healthcare sector, particularly his efforts to upgrade Civil Hospital Ludhiana. He also acknowledged Arora’s ongoing work in enhancing facilities at civil hospitals in Jalandhar and Amritsar, as well as his initiatives supporting cancer patients. In his address, MP Sanjeev Arora emphasised the crucial role psychiatrists can play in curbing the drug menace. He stressed the importance of mass awareness campaigns involving psychiatrists in educational institutions across the state. Arora opined that students are more likely to heed the advice of mental health professionals, even if they ignore guidance from elders or teachers. MP Arora also highlighted the need for a systemic shift in treating drug addiction. He advocated that drug addicts admitted to hospitals should be referred to psychiatrists instead of general physicians. Furthermore, he called for an end to the stigma surrounding psychiatric treatment and urged psychiatrists to offer voluntary support to the government in its anti-drug mission. Principal Secretary (Health) Kumar Rahul shared his optimism, stating that psychiatrists have shown keen interest in actively participating in the campaign. He outlined the campaign’s three pillars—supply reduction, harm reduction, and demand reduction—and asserted that psychiatrists have a critical role to play in each of these areas. Meanwhile in a parallel action to uphold integrity in healthcare, Dr. Balbir Singh announced the immediate suspension of a doctor from Ludhiana Civil Hospital after a video surfaced showing the doctor accepting money from a patient’s family. A departmental probe has been ordered to investigate the incident, with the Minister warning that strict action will be taken against those involved in corrupt practices. “The Punjab government maintains a zero-tolerance policy against corruption,” Dr. Singh affirmed, emphasizing accountability and transparency in public service. Prominent amongst those present included Dr. Basant Garg, Nodal Officer, Anti-Drug Campaign; Dr. Hitender Kaur, Director, Health Services; and Dr. Sandeep Bhola, State Programme Officer, Mental Health and Deaddiction.
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