Punjab’s anti-drug campaign Yudh Nashean Virudh has facilitated treatment, de-addiction and rehabilitation support for more than 90,000 people affected by substance abuse since its launch in March 2025, according to Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh.Punjab's anti-drug campaign, Yudh Nashean Virudh, has seen rising convictions under the NDPS Act, increasing from 80% in 2022 to 89% in 2026.The minister said the campaign combines enforcement against drug traffickers with prevention, treatment and rehabilitation measures. Between March 1, 2025, and May 2026, over 90,000 individuals were admitted to de-addiction centres and Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment (OOAT) centres across the state.Prevention key to long-term successDr Balbir Singh said the fight against drugs cannot rely solely on police action and enforcement.“As part of prevention and rehabilitation efforts, more than 90,000 victims of drug abuse have been admitted to de-addiction and Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment (OOAT) centres across Punjab between March 1, 2025, and May 2026.”He said teachers, parents and local communities play a crucial role in identifying vulnerable individuals before substance use develops into addiction.According to officials, early warning signs may include:Sudden mood swings and irritabilityFalling academic or work performanceWithdrawal from family interactionsSecrecy about activities and social circlesFrequent demands for moneySleep disturbancesLoss of interest in sports and hobbiesPhysical symptoms may include fatigue, poor hygiene, red eyes, excessive drowsiness and unexplained changes in weight.Recovery storiesThe government highlighted testimonies from recovering addicts who underwent treatment under the programme.Manpreet Singh (name changed), a recovered addict from Amritsar, said:“There was a time when I had almost given up on myself. The Punjab government's de-addiction centre gave me a new lease of life. The staff treated me with dignity and care. Today, I am free from addiction and looking forward to a better future. My message to others is simple: recovery is possible if you take the first step.”Khushbaaz Singh (name changed), currently undergoing treatment at Government Medical College, Amritsar, said counselling and medical support helped him return to normal life.Advice for parentsOfficials urged parents to:Spend more time with children and teenagersMaintain open communicationMonitor behavioural and emotional changesEncourage sports and cultural activitiesSeek counselling or medical help at the earliest signs of concernThe Punjab government said de-addiction, rehabilitation and counselling remain the three pillars of its anti-drug strategy, alongside continued action against traffickers and illegal drug networks.