North News
Chandigarh, January 23
Punjab’s Health and Family Welfare Department has launched a novel initiative in collaboration with the NGO Narcotics Anonymous (NA) to combat drug abuse in the state, Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said. Chairing a meeting with NA representatives and department officials, Dr. Singh emphasized the growing threat of drug addiction in Punjab. He highlighted the state’s efforts to foster open discussions about addiction to dispel myths, promote empathy, and encourage rehabilitation. “Drug abuse not only causes societal issues but also exposes injectable drug users to diseases like HIV, hepatitis C, and tuberculosis,” Singh stated.
The Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government has prioritized free de-addiction services, operating 529 OOAT (Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment) clinics, 36 treatment centers, and 19 rehabilitation facilities across Punjab, he said. He said that NA could play a pivotal role in reducing relapse rates among recovering addicts. Dr. Sandeep Bhola, Assistant Director (Mental Health), highlighted the unique role of NA peer educators. “Drug abuse patients often feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts with peers than doctors. This peer connection can overcome obstacles on the path to recovery,” Bhola said. Other officials, including Dr. Manju Bansal and Dr. Harpal Singh, participated in the meeting, while NA representatives assured their full cooperation in addressing Punjab’s drug abuse challenges.
