How Punjab's Yudh Nashean Virudh Helped Ex-Addicts Rebuild Lives And Relations

A year ago, Abhishek Kumar, a Punjab resident in the throes of drug addiction, struggled even with his simple daily routine. His family feared the worst. Today, he has a steady job and has rebuilt his relationships at home. “Having a job again changed everything. It gave me a reason to stay on the right path,” he said.

Kumar's recovery was supported by structured medical treatment, counselling, and post-rehabilitation employment support provided under the Bhagwant Mann Government's Yudh Nashean Virudh (‘War Against Drugs') campaign in Punjab.

Constant encouragement from his family also played a key role in helping him regain stability.

The anti‑drug campaign was launched on March 1, 2025, by Punjab's Aam Aadmi Party government to tackle the drug problem in the state. It began combining enforcement, public participation, and community action to make Punjab drug‑free. It is framed as a statewide fight against narcotics involving citizens, officials, and village bodies.

For Navdeep Kumar, the wake-up call came at home. Continuous fights at home and emotional distance forced him to confront the consequences of his addiction. Guided by his mother, he completed treatment and now works in the private sector. “Returning to work restored discipline and purpose in my life,” he said.

Gurjinder Singh faced a different challenge. Addiction affected his health, finances, and credibility within his family. With consistent rehabilitation support and parental guidance, he gradually rebuilt his life. Today, he is employed again, healthier, and has repaired his family relationships.

Officials say that recovery is stronger when counselling and support are combined with job opportunities. 

“Never experiment with drugs. It may seem harmless, but it can destroy everything,” Abhishek Kumar said.

Since its launch a year ago, the government has reported 36,178 FIRs registered against alleged drug traffickers and 51,648 arrests. Enforcement agencies seized 2,277 kg of heroin and over 49 lakh intoxicant tablets and capsules, while recovering Rs 16.70 crore in alleged drug money, Punjab Chief Minister Mann said in February.