AAP government allocates ₹150 crore for drug census in Punjab
What's the story
The Punjab government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has earmarked ₹150 crore for an all-encompassing drug census.
The project will seek information from every household on the prevalence of drugs, use of de-addiction centers, and the socio-economic status of residents.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema asserted that the information will prove valuable in formulating an efficient plan to tackle the state's drug menace in one to two years.
Vision
Kejriwal envisions a drug-free Punjab
AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal has hailed the drug census as a big step toward a Badalta Punjab (changing Punjab), instead of an Udta Punjab (high on drugs).
He tweeted, "Punjab Budget 2025-26 is a bold step toward a drug-free, healthy and prosperous Punjab! War on drugs, biggest ever investment in rural development and sports infrastructure. The AAP government is bringing real change on the ground."
Campaign progress
Punjab's anti-drug campaign yields significant results
Since the anti-drug campaign Yudh Nashian Virudh (war against drugs) was launched on March 1, almost 4,000 drug smugglers have been arrested and over 2,200 FIRs lodged across Punjab.
The operation has also led to a massive recovery of contraband, including about 138kg of heroin.
To further disrupt supply chains feeding the narcotics trade in Punjab, DGP Gaurav Yadav has asked senior cops to list major drug suppliers and peddlers in their districts within a week.
Investment
Punjab government invests in anti-drone technology
Furthermore, in an attempt to check drug smuggling through the India-Pakistan border, the Punjab government has set aside ₹110 crore for anti-drone technology and hiring 5,000 guards.
However, the AAP's promise of giving ₹1,000 monthly to women was absent in this year's budget presented by Cheema.
When asked, he said, "Yes, the guarantee regarding assistance for women is pending. We are getting surveys done, and soon it will be fulfilled too."