Chandigarh: Under the ongoing ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign, the state administration has rolled out a specialized educational curriculum designed to dispel common myths regarding substance abuse among school students. Formulated alongside researchers from J-PAL and CEGA Berkeley, the initiative provides a structured framework to help adolescents recognize the physical, social, and economic consequences of drug dependence. Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh stated that educating youth before they encounter offers to try illicit substances is vital to breaking patterns of abuse across the state.
The standardized modules address several key areas, emphasizing that addiction is a complex medical condition rather than a failure of self-control and that rehabilitation often requires long-term support. School coordinators affirmed that the practical lessons equip students with clear strategies to resist peer pressure and make informed choices. By integrating scientific insights into classroom learning, the state government aims to build long-term resilience among students and promote a health-conscious environment across Punjab’s educational network.
