Health Minister Visits Drug De-addiction Centre, Reviews Yudh Nasheya Viruddh Program

Ludhiana, March 16,2025: Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh on Sunday visited the De-addiction and Rehabilitation Centre at the local civil hospital. 

Accompanied by MLA Ashok Parashar Pappi, the Minister highlighted the Punjab government's initiative, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, 'Yudh Nasheya Viruddh' program aimed at making the state drug-free. Under this initiative, the health department is enhancing treatment facilities for individuals struggling with addiction. 

Dr. Singh emphasized that the Punjab Government is committed to reintegrating treated individuals into society. This will be achieved through de-addiction centers, which will also provide vocational training to aid in their employment. He noted that facilities such as sports venues and libraries will also be augmented across the state to channel the energy of these individuals in a positive direction.

Furthermore, the Minister announced that the Punjab Government plans to implement Narcotics Support Groups at the ward and village levels. These groups will support individuals who have successfully overcome addiction, helping to prevent relapse. The health department is also in the process of recruiting a significant number of doctors and paramedics, addressing the current staff shortages.

During his visit, Dr. Singh also interacted with those receiving treatment at the de-addiction centre, encouraging them to avoid falling back into drug use after completing their treatment. He also mentioned plans for a new 1000-bedded Super Speciality Hospital. This 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. The Minister also talked about the success of Mohalla clinics, which have treated over three crore people.

Dr. Singh praised MP Sanjeev Arora for his efforts in improving health infrastructure at the Civil Hospital.

Present at the event were ADC Amarjit Bains, SDM Jasleen Kaur Bhullar, Director of Health Dr. Hitender Kaur, Civil Surgeon Dr. Ramandeep Kaur, and other officials.