Punjab CM launches scheme for drug-rehabilitated people
Ludhiana, June 27
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday launched the 'Soorma' campaign and honoured drug-rehabilitated people with specially crafted 'Soorma' rings and T-shirts.
Declaring it as the next phase of the state's anti-drug movement, the Chief Minister said the initiative aimed to transform recovered drug victims into "Ambassadors of Hope", who will lead the fight against addiction at the grassroots.
Felicitating individuals who have remained drug-free for over two years, he announced that they will not only inspire others to overcome addiction but will also be provided with employment opportunities by the state government. Reiterating that sports are the most lethal weapon against the drug menace, he announced that by July 15, around 3,100 village sports grounds and 3,000 gyms will become operational across Punjab to channelise the energy of youth in a positive direction.
He said the state's simultaneous focus on quality education, universal healthcare, sports infrastructure and rehabilitation is laying the foundation for a drug-free and Rangla Punjab.
CM Mann stated the youth had taken a historic step by overcoming addiction after losing everything to drugs. He said today they were being honoured because they had displayed extraordinary courage in defeating addiction, despite the social stigma attached to it.
"There is a huge social stigma associated with drug addiction. Once people come to know that someone is addicted to drugs, they even stop talking to that person. These young people have gone through that pain and trauma, but today they are ready for a new beginning and are prepared to serve society," he said.
"These youth have overcome the illness of addiction and can now help others by sharing their own experiences. The Punjab government is continuously strengthening the rehabilitation of drug victims, and world-class rehabilitation centres equipped with modern facilities are already being established across the state," he said.
Highlighting the state's achievements, CM Mann said the government has transformed the education sector by ensuring quality education in government schools, enabling Punjab to emerge as the number one state with a score of 27 by surpassing Kerala and several other states.
The CM said education is the greatest tool for eradicating poverty. "Children studying in our schools will become senior officers tomorrow and help lift their families out of poverty. Cards or freebies alone cannot eliminate poverty, but education certainly has the power to do so," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I appreciate the idea but feel skeptical. We've seen many such schemes in the past that didn't deliver. The social stigma part is very real though - my neighbor's son recovered but nobody in the mohalla talks to him. Hope this campaign actually changes mindsets and provides real jobs, not just photo ops.
As someone from Punjab who has seen friends destroyed by drugs, this gives me hope. CM Mann is right - sports and education are the real weapons. Those 3,100 village sports grounds could be game-changers if properly maintained. But we need sustained effort, not just a one-time event. Let's see the follow-through. 💪
Great to see a proactive approach to rehab rather than just punishment. The "Soorma" title is a nice touch - calling them warriors instead of victims changes the narrative completely. I hope other states take note of this model. The focus on dignity and employment is exactly what's needed for lasting recovery.
One thing bothers me - they talk about education being number one in some ranking but our school infrastructure is still poor in many villages. Also, rehabilitation centers are good but what about prevention? Need more awareness in schools and colleges before kids get addicted. Still, better than doing nothing I guess. 🤷♀️
Bajrang Bali! This is exactly what Punjab needs. My own cousin lost 5 years to heroin and now volunteers at a de-addiction center. These recovered people are the real heroes - they've been through hell and come back. Giving them jobs and respect will inspire thousands. Well done Mann sahab, abhi aur karo!
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