Chandigarh, March 20
Punjab Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema highlighted the ongoing, large-scale campaign 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' launched by the Punjab government under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's leadership to eliminate drug abuse from the state. Speaking on the issue, Cheema applauded the efforts of Punjab Police in arresting major drug traffickers, dismantling their operations, and taking stringent actions, including demolishing properties linked to drug dealers.
Cheema remarked, “The war on drugs is not just about catching drug traffickers. We must also focus on providing a positive direction to our youth, who are ensnared by addiction. Employment is the most effective way to steer them away from drugs. When our young people have access to stable jobs and bright futures, they will not turn to drugs. That is the long-term solution to this problem.”
The Minister pointed out that creating employment opportunities requires robust industrial growth in Punjab. He expressed concern over the adverse impact of prolonged road closures at key borders such as Shambhu and Khanauri, due to protests against the central government’s policies. "These highways are Punjab’s lifelines for trade and industry, connecting the state to the rest of the country. The closures, lasting over a year, have severely impacted Punjab’s economy and hindered industrial development," he said.
Cheema appealed to farmers and protestors to focus their demonstrations against the central government, rather than disrupting Punjab’s infrastructure. “The Aam Aadmi Party is fully committed to supporting farmers and has consistently stood by them. During the recent Vidhan Sabha session, we passed a resolution opposing the anti-farmer policies of the BJP-led central government. However, we request our farmer brothers not to block highways, as it harms Punjab’s trade and industry,” he added.
The Minister drew attention to Punjab’s declining economic status. “This is a direct result of industrial projects moving away from the state. Our government is committed to reversing this trend by bringing in industries, creating jobs, and strengthening Punjab’s economy,” he stated.
Cheema also criticized previous governments, including the Congress and the Akali Dal-BJP alliance, for their failure to address farmers' concerns and manage crises like pest attacks on crops. “Unlike them, the Aam Aadmi Party government is determined to find solutions. We are working tirelessly to revive Punjab’s economy and provide a better future for our youth,” he asserted.