Punjab Schools to Strengthen Anti-Drug Fight Through Year-Long Campaign
Chandigarh, August 21: As part of the Bhagwant Mann Government’s Yudh Nashean Virudh campaign against drugs, schools across Punjab will undertake a structured year-long programme to create awareness among students about the risks and consequences of drug abuse and encourage healthier, drug-free lifestyles.
According to the activity calendar issued by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), schools will organise activities involving students, teachers, parents and the wider community throughout the academic year. The initiative aims to create a sustained prevention ecosystem within schools through awareness, education, early intervention and community participation.
During August, students will prepare posters carrying anti-drug messages. September will focus on involving parents through Parent-Teacher Meetings, where they will be sensitised about the risks associated with narcotic substances and the importance of early identification and intervention.
In October, schools will organise poetry-writing and quiz competitions. From November to February, community members will be invited to share their experiences and participate in anti-drug awareness workshops. Students will also take anti-drug pledges during morning assemblies and participate in interactive sessions on the dangers of drugs and the importance of healthy lifestyles.
Anti-Drug Clubs and Creative Awareness Activities
Schools have been directed to establish drug-free clubs comprising teachers, headmasters and non-teaching staff. They have also been encouraged to use creative and interactive formats so that students can engage with the issue beyond conventional lectures.
The programme will focus on healthy lifestyles, informed decision-making and helping students understand how to resist negative influences.
A major component is strengthening teachers’ capacity to identify students who may be vulnerable to drug abuse. More than 21,000 teachers are being equipped with practical skills to identify early signs of mental health concerns and drug abuse and intervene at the appropriate time.
Video-Based Curriculum and Anonymous Tip-Off Boxes
Schools will also use a video-based anti-drug curriculum to educate students about the risks and consequences of substance abuse. Anonymous tip-off boxes are being encouraged to provide students with a confidential channel to report suspected substance abuse or related concerns.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said, “The fight against drugs must begin in classrooms. Education and prevention are our most powerful weapons in this decisive war on drugs.”
He stressed that protecting young minds through awareness, values and discipline is essential for achieving a sustainable victory over the drug menace in Punjab. The school-focused approach is in line with the government’s broader emphasis on prevention and early intervention.
500-Metre Drug-Free Zone Around Schools
Under the directions, schools have also been asked to ensure a 500-metre drug-free zone around their premises and periodically report compliance.
School heads and mentors will monitor the implementation of the activities and maintain records, including photographs, to ensure regular review and accountability.
The year-long Yudh Nashean Virudh calendar seeks to bring together students, teachers, parents and communities in a sustained effort to prevent drug abuse and build healthier, safer and drug-free school environments across Punjab.
