Scale, Intent, Execution and Success of 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' Unparalleled, Won't Stop Until Punjab is Free of Drugs: Baltej Pannu
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
The Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab Government, under the decisive leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has completed 300 days of its flagship anti-drug campaign ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’, marking a major milestone in the state’s determined and systematic fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
Addressing a press conference, AAP Punjab General Secretary and Media In-charge Baltej Pannu termed the campaign a historic and people-driven movement, stating that the scale, intent, and execution of ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ has no parallel, not just in India, but anywhere in the world.
Sharing official data from March 1, 2025 to December 23, 2025, Baltej Pannu said the Punjab Police has shown exemplary performance, backed by the government’s unwavering political will. Cases registered: 28,485, Accused arrested: 41,517. Drug seizures include: Heroin: 1,819.669 kg, Smack: 0.266 kg, Opium: 594.671 kg, Poppy husk / green plants: 27,160.449 kg, Charas: 40.764 kg, Ganja: 577.472 kg, Cocaine: 4.364 kg, Ice (synthetic drugs): 25.212 kg and Intoxicant powder: 40.551 kg. Additionally, authorities seized: 1,666 injections, 46,03,652 banned tablets and capsules and Drug money worth ₹15.23 crore.
Mann Government's 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' Beyond Policing: A 360-Degree Strategy
Baltej Pannu said that the campaign is being fought on multiple fronts simultaneously. While the Punjab Police continues its strict enforcement, the administration and Nasha Mukti Morcha are working relentlessly on rehabilitation and prevention.
Government-run de-addiction centres have been completely transformed, from neglected facilities into dignified recovery spaces. Adequate medicines, proper food, clean living conditions, sports facilities, and meaningful engagement have been ensured. Libraries that were once locked now house motivational literature and quality Punjabi books, along with Punjabi and Hindi newspapers, helping patients redirect their focus and rebuild their lives.
Recovered individuals are actively engaged in kitchens, sports like volleyball, and other constructive activities, making rehabilitation humane and effective.
People’s Movement: Structure from State to Village Level
Under the Nasha Mukti Morcha, Punjab was divided into five zones: Majha, Doaba, Malwa East, Malwa West, and Malwa Central, with dedicated leadership at every level. The structure extends from zone heads to Assembly constituency in-charges and down to village-level coordinators.A key pillar of the movement is the Village Defence Committees, now known as ‘Pind De Pehredar’ (Guardians of Villages). Their strength has grown to nearly one lakh volunteers, actively supporting the mission at the grassroots.
Phase Two Begins January 7
Baltej Pannu announced that Phase Two of ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ will run from January 7 to January 25, focusing on a large-scale awareness campaign. Block and village-level in-charges, along with volunteers, will engage residents across Punjab. Participation will be open to all citizens, irrespective of political affiliation. “This is not a party or government campaign, it is a mission of Punjabis for Punjab,” Pannu said, adding that volunteers will multiply from village to village, strengthening the movement organically.
Refuting claims that the campaign would fade away, Pannu said, “Some believed this would last a few weeks or months. Even after 300 days, it is not slowing down, because it is backed by the government’s iron will. This is why it is called a ‘Yudh’ (war). We will continue until Punjab is completely drug free.”
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