16-MAY-2025,12:00 PM In a bold and much-anticipated move to combat the growing drug crisis in Punjab, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced the launch of the ‘Nasha Mukti Yatra’, a statewide campaign aimed at eliminating drug addiction and building a healthier future for Punjab’s youth. The announcement marks a crucial step in the Aam Aadmi Party’s promise to address the deeply rooted issue of substance abuse in the state.
Punjab, a state known for its rich cultural heritage and agricultural strength, has long struggled with a serious drug problem that affects individuals across socioeconomic classes. With this initiative, Kejriwal aims to bring together the government, local communities, and youth in a united front against addiction.
Kejriwal : Eradicating Drug Addiction from the Roots
Kejriwal : Nasha Mukti Yatra
Kejriwal launched the ‘Nasha Mukti Yatra’ in the presence of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and senior party leaders. The yatra is more than just a symbolic gesture—it will traverse the length and breadth of Punjab, covering districts that have been most severely affected by drug trafficking and abuse.
The yatra aims to spread awareness, offer rehabilitation support, and encourage public participation. Kejriwal emphasized that the movement will not stop until Punjab is completely drug-free. “This is not just a political promise. This is a people’s movement,” he declared while addressing a large gathering at the flag-off ceremony in Amritsar.
The campaign will include awareness drives, street plays, counseling services, and mobile health units to provide on-spot support to addicts and their families.
Kejriwal : Commitment to Youth and Families in Punjab
Kejriwal : Why Punjab Needs a Nasha Mukti Yatra Now
Punjab’s battle with drug addiction is not new. For years, the state has witnessed an alarming rise in drug-related deaths, crimes, and social breakdown. Despite several past attempts by previous governments, the problem has persisted, primarily due to ineffective implementation and lack of community involvement.
Kejriwal, known for his data-driven governance in Delhi, stated that a combination of social mobilization, strict law enforcement, and effective rehabilitation is the only way to deal with such a widespread issue. The ‘Nasha Mukti Yatra’ will engage directly with schools, colleges, and rural areas to educate people about the dangers of drugs and provide pathways to recovery.
According to official statistics, over 2.5 lakh people in Punjab are currently registered in government de-addiction centers. The real number may be far higher. Kejriwal stressed the need for more comprehensive care and called upon every family in Punjab to join hands in this mission.
Key Features of the Nasha Mukti Yatra Announced by Kejriwal
1. Village-Level Engagement Programs
Kejriwal announced that each village and mohalla will have anti-drug committees comprising local volunteers and teachers. These committees will help identify at-risk individuals and direct them toward de-addiction centers.
2. Mobile Clinics and Counseling Vans
To reach remote and underserved populations, mobile clinics will provide access to mental health professionals and addiction counselors. Kejriwal assured that these services would be free and easily accessible to all citizens.
3. School Awareness Campaigns
Special programs will be rolled out in schools and colleges, educating students about the dangers of drug abuse. Peer support networks and student-led anti-drug clubs will also be established under the campaign.
4. Strict Action Against Drug Mafias
Coordination with police and central agencies will be enhanced, and a 24/7 drug complaint helpline will be set up to ensure citizen participation in law enforcement.
Kejriwal Draws from Delhi’s Governance Model
Success in Delhi Provides a Blueprint
Kejriwal highlighted his government’s success in reforming public education and healthcare in Delhi and said similar reforms will be brought to Punjab’s addiction treatment infrastructure. “We did it in Delhi with education and mohalla clinics. We will do it in Punjab with drug rehabilitation,” said Kejriwal, promising to create a robust support system for those fighting addiction.
Under the AAP government in Delhi, the focus on mental health and community-based care has shown significant results.
Public Response to Kejriwal’s Announcement
Widespread Support Across Political and Civil Circles
The announcement by Kejriwal has garnered widespread support across civil society, especially from healthcare professionals and youth organizations. Many are calling the initiative long overdue and are hopeful that the hands-on approach will yield better results than previous campaigns.
However, critics argue that such campaigns must be followed up with strict monitoring and sustainable funding to prevent it from fading away after the initial momentum. In response,
Next Steps and Timeline
How Long Will the Yatra Run?
The ‘Nasha Mukti Yatra’ is expected to run over a span of three months, with separate phases focusing on awareness, outreach, medical aid, and law enforcement. Post-campaign, the government will publish a whitepaper documenting the impact and identifying the areas that require sustained efforts.
Conclusion: Kejriwal’s Call to Action
The ‘Nasha Mukti Yatra’ isn’t just a campaign; it’s a movement with the potential to transform lives. Kejriwal’s leadership, known for prioritizing people-first governance, is once again under the spotlight as Punjab looks to rise from the shadow of addiction.
With the right balance of public participation, strong administration, and continuous follow-through, this campaign could set a precedent for other states struggling with similar challenges. As the yatra rolls across Punjab, the message is clear: the fight against drugs is not just the government’s responsibility—it’s a collective one. And under Kejriwal’s watch, Punjab might finally have a fighting chance.
Source : ANI
