Chandigarh: Punjab Governor and UT Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria on Tuesday addressed a press conference at Punjab Lok Bhavan in Chandigarh to share details of an intensive anti-drug awareness campaign being undertaken to strengthen the fight against drug abuse in the state. The campaign includes a four-day awareness padyatra across the border districts of Tarn Taran, Ferozepur and Fazilka, aimed at mobilizing public participation against drugs.
The Governor emphasized that, with the efforts of the Punjab Red Cross Society, the padyatra aims to spread awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse. He reiterated that rehabilitation and employment generation must remain the central pillars in the fight against drugs, alongside strict enforcement of the law and sustained public awareness. He appealed to all sections of society to make this a people’s movement.
The detailed schedule of the Padyatra is as follows: February 9, 2026 (11:30 a.m.) – Tarn Taran: From Shri Guru Arjan Dev School to Police Lines via Police Guards February 10, 2026 (11:30 a.m.) – Ferozepur: From Saragarhi Memorial to Government School of Eminence, Ferozepur City February 11, 2026 (12:00 noon) – Fazilka: From Sanjeev Cinema, Fazilka to Clock Tower, Fazilka February 12, 2026 (11:30 a.m.) – Abohar (Fazilka): From Municipal Corporation Office, Abohar to D.A.V. College, Abohar
Interacting with the media, the Governor highlighted that drug abuse is not merely a local or state issue, but a global challenge that requires sustained and collective efforts.
The Governor stressed that the fight against drugs must be continuous and sincere, and called upon social, religious, political and educational institutions, NGOs, and other organizations to actively participate and support this mass movement. The campaign seeks to unite all sections of society towards the common goal of making Punjab drug-free.
He reiterated that meaningful change can only be achieved through continuous and persistent efforts, community involvement, and a strong focus on rehabilitation, ensuring that affected individuals are reintegrated into society with dignity and employment opportunities.
