Shri Basant Garg IAS (Punjab 2005), presently Administrative Secretary, Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, given additional charge of Secretary – Health & Family Welfare, and Nodal Officer, Anti Drug Campaign, Punjab, relieving Shri Rahul Tiwari IAS of the additional charge.
The Punjab government is intensifying its anti-drug campaign, Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh, using a multi-faceted approach to combat drug abuse. Key initiatives include demolishing properties owned by convicted traffickers and conducting a state-wide drug census to assess addiction levels. A budget of Rs 110 crore has been allocated to enhance border security through the deployment of 5,000 Home Guards and advanced anti-drone systems. The campaign emphasises enforcement alongside public health, encouraging anonymous reporting and grassroots prevention efforts. It prioritizes rehabilitation and strengthening de-addiction centers, while also engaging youth in sports and education. Recent operations have resulted in thousands of arrests and significant drug seizures, aiming for a drug-free Punjab.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Shri Basant Garg the very best.