Punjab trains teachers against drug abuse

The Punjab government, under its anti-drug campaign 'Yudh Nashean Virudh', has launched a phased teacher training programme across 12 districts to equip over 21,850 teachers with skills to identify early signs of mental health issues and drug abuse among students. The programme began in Fazilka and Tarn Taran in August 2026, with over 800 teachers attending initial workshops. It will expand to other districts including Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, and Ludhiana. The training builds on earlier sessions for principals and a pilot in Amritsar. Led by the India — National Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) with support from the Data Intelligence and Technical Support Unit (DITSU), the initiative is conducted in over 500 batches with support from India — Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) and the India — National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR). Health Minister Balbir Singh emphasized the importance of early intervention and compassionate response. Teachers will take a pledge and conduct follow-up activities. The programme's effectiveness will be monitored through feedback.