Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday launched the 'Soorma' (warrior) campaign, marking the next phase of the state's anti-drug movement. The initiative aims to transform recovered drug victims into Ambassadors of Hope who will lead the fight against addiction at the grassroots level.
Honouring Recovered Youth
During the event, Mann felicitated individuals who have remained drug-free for over two years, presenting them with specially crafted rings and T-shirts. These recovered youth will not only inspire others to overcome addiction but will also be provided employment opportunities by the state government, the Chief Minister announced.
Sports Infrastructure Boost
Reiterating that sports are the most effective weapon against the drug menace, Mann announced that by July 15, approximately 3,100 village sports grounds and 3,000 gyms will become operational across Punjab. This infrastructure aims to channelise the energy of youth in a positive direction. He further said that the state's simultaneous focus on quality education, universal healthcare, sports infrastructure, and rehabilitation is laying the foundation for a drug-free and 'Rangla Punjab'.
CM's Social Media Announcement
Sharing updates on X, CM Mann stated: 'Today, we launched the Soorma Campaign and honoured young people who have emerged from the clutches of drug addiction to begin a new life. These inspiring youngsters, who have become role models for others, will also be provided employment opportunities by the Punjab Government.' He added that by July 15, 3,100 new sports grounds and 3,000 gyms will be ready for the youth across Punjab. 'Today, Punjab ranks No. 1 in the country in education, and 47 lakh families have already received Rs 10 lakh Mukh Mantri Sehat insurance cards for free medical treatment.' He also noted that the Sadak Surakhya Force (SSF) has reduced road accident fatalities by 50 per cent, saving around 2,700 precious lives every year.
Addressing Social Stigma
Addressing the gathering, CM Mann said the youth present had taken a historic step by overcoming addiction after losing everything to drugs. 'There is a huge social stigma associated with drug addiction. Once people come to know that someone is addicted to drugs, they even stop talking to that person. These young people have gone through that pain and trauma, but today they are ready for a new beginning and are prepared to serve society,' he said.
Rehabilitation and Healthcare Initiatives
The CM said the Punjab Government is continuously strengthening the rehabilitation of drug victims, and world-class rehabilitation centres equipped with modern facilities are being established across the state. He reported that 17.47 lakh families out of nearly 65 lakh families in Punjab have already received Mukh Mantri Sehat Bima cards, enabling them to avail free medical treatment. Beneficiaries have already received cashless treatment worth nearly Rs 650 crore under the scheme.
Other Achievements
Listing several other achievements, the CM said Punjab is now using 80 per cent canal water for irrigation, farmers are receiving electricity during daytime, the Sadak Surakhya Force (SSF) has already helped save around 3,000 lives in road accidents, nearly 90 per cent of households are receiving free electricity, and several other welfare initiatives have significantly benefited the people.
Soorma Anthem and Registration
The CM also launched an inspiring anthem dedicated to every individual fighting addiction and announced that the Soorma programme would now reach every district and village across Punjab. Individuals who have successfully completed de-addiction treatment and maintained abstinence for at least two years can register themselves for the programme by sending the message 'Soorma' on WhatsApp to 9779142200.
