Chandigarh (Naval Kishore): The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, today called for collective and sustained efforts by all sections of society to prevent drug addiction and build a drug-free Chandigarh during Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan programme organised by the Health Department, Chandigarh Administration, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, at the U.T. Secretariat. The Administrator was accompanied by Shri Mandip Singh Brar, Home-cum-Health Secretary, U.T. Chandigarh; Shri Pardeep Kumar, IAS, Secretary Fisheries; and Dr. Suman Singh, Director Health Services, U.T. Chandigarh
The Administrator administered the Nasha Mukt Bharat pledge to the participants and called upon them to spread awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse. He urged NSS cadets to become “Nasha Mukt Mitr” and act as ambassadors of the campaign by engaging with students in schools and colleges, promoting healthy and productive lifestyles and encouraging young people to make positive choices. He highlighted the importance of creating supportive environments in educational institutions and communities where young people can seek guidance and assistance.
Addressing the gathering, the Administrator emphasised that the fight against drug abuse requires a whole-of-society approach and is a collective responsibility to protect the future of the country and its children. Referring to the land of the Sikh Gurus and the sacrifices Punjab, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Udham Singh and other freedom fighters, he said that generations had stood firm against challenges to the nation and called upon citizens to show the same resolve against the menace of drugs. He said that those involved in drug peddling must face strict action, while persons affected by addiction must be supported with timely treatment, rehabilitation, family support and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
He said that the programme aimed to strengthen coordinated efforts for prevention, early intervention, treatment, rehabilitation and community support, with a focus on helping persons in recovery lead healthy and productive lives. Highlighting initiatives under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, awareness campaigns and the proposed door-to-door survey, he urged all stakeholders to work together to strengthen community-level action and realise the shared goal of a “Nasha Mukt Chandigarh.”
Earlier, in his welcome address, Shri Mandip Singh Brar, Home-cum-Health Secretary, U.T. Chandigarh, highlighted the Administration’s efforts towards de-addiction and rehabilitation. He said that between April 2025 and July 2026, de-addiction treatment centres in Chandigarh recorded 76,615 OPD consultations, including 6,774 new registrations and 69,641 follow-up visits, while 1,131 patients received inpatient treatment.
He further informed that the De-addiction Treatment Centre at Government Multi-Specialty Hospital, Sector 16, recorded 3,066 OPD consultations, including 680 new registrations and 2,386 follow-up visits, during the same period, while 101 patients received inpatient treatment.
A significant feature of the programme was the felicitation of individuals who have successfully completed their recovery journey and are leading healthy, fulfilling lives. One individual shared his personal journey and conveyed a message of hope, highlighting the importance of timely treatment, rehabilitation, determination, family support and continued community support in the recovery process.
Partner organisations working in drug prevention, de-addiction, rehabilitation and recovery were also felicitated for their contribution to the campaign. These included the Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses (SPYM), The Art of Living Foundation, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. The programme also featured awareness and IEC activities focusing on prevention, early intervention, treatment, rehabilitation, recovery and healthy lifestyles.
The Administrator also called for coordinated action among all stakeholders to ensure that awareness efforts reach schools, colleges, families and communities. He emphasised that sustained public participation is essential to strengthening the campaign and creating a supportive environment for persons affected by substance abuse.
The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan focuses on creating awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse, encouraging timely treatment and rehabilitation, and strengthening community participation in preventing drug abuse. In Chandigarh, awareness and community-based activities will continue to engage youth, educational institutions, families, departments and civil society organisations towards the shared goal of a “Nasha Mukt Chandigarh.”
The programme was attended by senior officers of the Chandigarh Administration; representatives of various departments; youth; students; NSS cadets; NGOs and other stakeholders.
