Punjab’s “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh” Campaign Targets Drug Traffickers, with Tarunpreet Singh Sond Leading the Charge
Punjab’s “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh” Campaign Targets Drug Trafficking with Strong Stand from Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond
Chandigarh/Moga, March 18, 2025 — In a decisive push against the growing drug menace in Punjab, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, the Cabinet Minister for Rural Development and Panchayats, Industries, Commerce, and Tourism, held a pivotal meeting with civil and police administration officials in Moga district. As part of the ongoing “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh” campaign, Sond emphasized that drug traffickers have no place in Punjab, promising that the state government will not rest until the region is free from drugs.
The minister’s stern warning to drug traffickers was clear: either exit the illegal drug trade or leave Punjab. His statements reflect the Punjab government’s unwavering resolve to eliminate the pervasive issue of drug abuse, which has devastated countless lives, especially among the youth.
A Collaborative Effort Against Drugs
Addressing the civil and police administration, Sond underlined the importance of coordinated efforts to combat drug trafficking. He directed the Moga administration to prepare a comprehensive plan for eradicating drugs and to initiate a widespread awareness campaign in schools and colleges, targeting the youth who are often the most vulnerable to drug abuse.
“Eradicating drugs is not just the responsibility of the government or the police; it’s a collective effort from all sections of society,” Sond stated. He urged local village panchayats and community leaders to take part in raising awareness about the harmful effects of drugs and to encourage reporting of drug-related activities. He also highlighted the value of using street plays and other community-based activities in villages and towns to educate the masses about the dangers of substance abuse.
Punjab’s Comprehensive Strategy
Sond emphasized that the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is determined to make the state drug-free. “We are giving our full support to the police and the administration. We will act decisively against drug traffickers, with no political interference,” he declared.
As part of the “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh” initiative, a comprehensive approach is being adopted, which includes both preventive measures and rehabilitation. The government has been strengthening de-addiction centers and providing skill development programs and employment opportunities to help rehabilitated individuals reintegrate into society.
Punjab’s law enforcement is actively dismantling drug networks, with a clear focus on curbing the supply and trade of illegal substances. The Minister also encouraged families to make use of the state’s de-addiction centers to help their addicted members recover and live a healthier life.
A Major Crackdown: Recent Achievements Under “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh”
The “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh” campaign, which launched on March 1, 2025, has already shown notable results. Between March 1 and March 16, 2025, the campaign has led to significant seizures and arrests, including:
- 1,651 FIRs registered
- 2,575 arrests made
- 95.264 kg of heroin seized
- 1,128 kg of poppy husk confiscated
- 52.316 kg of opium recovered
- 16 kg of marijuana seized
- 4.632 kg of hashish recovered
- 7,25,666 intoxicating pills confiscated
- 1,733 liters of illicit liquor (Lahan) seized
- ₹64.26 lakh in drug-related money recovered
- 279 intoxicating injections seized
This widespread operation signals the Punjab government’s no-tolerance policy towards drugs, and officials are committed to keeping the momentum going.
Community Involvement and Support
The Minister appealed to the people of Punjab to support the government’s efforts by actively participating in the fight against drugs. “Your support is crucial. Report drug dealers without fear. Your identities will remain confidential,” Sond reassured citizens, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation.
He also made a special call to the village panchayats to organize grassroots-level activities, ensuring the campaign reaches every corner of the state. “It’s our social responsibility to rid Punjab of this menace,” he added, reinforcing that drug eradication requires joint efforts from both the government and the people.
A Strong Message to Drug Traffickers
Sond’s meeting was not just a strategic planning session, but a stern warning to those involved in the illegal drug trade. “Either quit the drug trade or leave Punjab,” Sond stated emphatically, signaling that the Punjab government will take relentless action against drug traffickers. He also disclosed that properties obtained illegally by drug traffickers are being seized and demolished as part of efforts to dismantle their networks and deter further involvement in the trade.
The government’s strategy also includes using technology and public awareness to prevent the spread of drugs. The Punjab government’s helpline number 9779100200 has been established to encourage people to report any drug-related activities, with the assurance of complete confidentiality.
Continued Vigilance and Cooperation from Law Enforcement
The Deputy Commissioner of Moga, Mr. Sagar Setia, shared updates on the ongoing efforts to combat drugs, including strengthening rehabilitation centers and improving treatment facilities for those affected by substance abuse. He also emphasized the importance of skill development programs and the provision of employment opportunities for rehabilitated individuals to ensure a successful reintegration into society.
SSP Moga, Mr. Ajay Gandhi, further assured that a major crackdown on drug traffickers is ongoing, with plans to dismantle the entire networks operating in the region. The police department is working closely with the public to ensure that no trafficker escapes justice.
The Road Ahead: Punjab’s Drug-Free Vision
In his address to the media, Tarunpreet Singh Sond reiterated the commitment of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to create a drug-free state. “We are working tirelessly to restore Punjab’s glory, and drug eradication is a key part of that mission,” Sond remarked.
As the “Yudh Nashiyan Virudh” campaign progresses, Punjab’s collective efforts to fight the drug menace remain strong, with decisive action and community participation playing a central role in the state’s anti-drug strategy.