Chandigarh: Over 90,000 drug abuse victims were admitted to de-addiction and Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment (OOAT) centres across Punjab under the anti-drug campaign ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ between March 1, 2025, and May 2026, health minister Dr Balbir Singh announced.
He emphasized that while enforcement actions against the drug menace continue statewide, teachers, parents, and community members serve as the first line of defense in identifying vulnerable individuals before substance use escalates into addiction.
“The early stages of addiction often go unnoticed, manifesting through subtle emotional, behavioral and physical warning signs,” Dr Singh added.
Early indicators may include sudden mood swings, irritability, declining academic or work performance, withdrawal from family interactions, secrecy about routine activities, unexplained demands for money, new social circles, disturbed sleep patterns, and loss of interest in sports and other pastimes.
Physical symptoms may encompass neglect of personal hygiene, fatigue, redness of the eyes, drowsiness, changes in eating habits, and unexplained weight fluctuations.
Experts associated with the campaign have advised families not to ignore such behavioral changes. Parents should address these concerns through calm and supportive conversations without judgment, and seek professional help whenever necessary.
According to the minister, many individuals have successfully undergone treatment and rehabilitation following interventions carried out under Yudh Nashean Virudh and are now leading healthier lives.
