CHANDIGARH, July 31 — A specialized cadre of young mental health leaders is reshaping Punjab’s approach to addiction recovery, with state authorities preparing to induct seventeen new fellows and senior associates next month. The Leadership in Mental Health Programme, established earlier this year under the Department of Health and Family Welfare, pairs administrative strategy with compassionate care across public health centers.
The initiative supports the broader Yudh Nashean Virudh movement by treating substance abuse as a long-term medical and social challenge rather than solely a law enforcement issue. Fellows entering the two-year program undergo training with the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, acquiring expertise in program management, community engagement, and relapse management before taking up roles in district medical facilities.
Outlining the core objectives of the campaign, Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh declared that sustainable solutions require a balance between legal actions and health-focused interventions. “Yudh Nashean Virudh is not just an initiative against drugs; it is a movement to reclaim Punjab’s youth,” Dr. Singh maintained. “While strict action is being taken against drug peddlers and traffickers, we are equally committed to helping every victim of drug abuse return to a life full of dignity and prevent the youth from falling into the trap of addiction.”
The active cohort of thirteen fellows has begun establishing post-rehabilitation care networks, collaborating with local healthcare personnel, and supporting family counseling sessions. With the upcoming recruitment cycle in August, the health department aims to deploy dedicated mental health specialists to every district in Punjab, ensuring structured support for individuals and families affected by substance dependence.
