CHANDIGARH: Across Punjab, Anganwadi Workers are joining the Bhagwant Mann government’s Yudh Nashean Virudh initiative as Nasha Mukti Mitras, building a grassroots network to sensitise families and communities about drug abuse, with sports and community participation emerging as key elements of the prevention strategy.
A state-level event organised in Malout, Sri Muktsar Sahib, offered a glimpse into how the Bhagwant Mann government’s Yudh Nashean Virudh initiative is moving beyond enforcement and de-addiction to strengthen prevention at the community level. At the event, 20 Anganwadi Workers serving as Nasha Mukti Mitras were felicitated by Minister for Social Security and Women and Child Development Dr Baljit Kaur for their contribution to spreading awareness about substance abuse.
With regular contact with families and children, Anganwadi Workers are being positioned as community-level ambassadors who can sensitise people about the dangers of drugs, encourage early intervention, and help connect those needing assistance with the state’s de-addiction and rehabilitation system.
Addressing Anganwadi Workers, youth and community champions from the district, Dr Baljit Kaur said, “The Punjab government is expanding sports infrastructure to provide youngsters with healthier alternatives and keep them away from drugs.”
School children at the Malout programme participated in poster-making and essay-writing competitions. Cultural performances, including Malwai Giddha and a play on drug awareness, reinforced the message of a healthy, drug-free Punjab.
