Context: Punjab CM launched a reward policy for Punjab Police officers excelling in the anti-drug campaign, offering cash rewards for major seizures.
- The move comes as part of the state’s intensified crackdown under Yudh Nasheyan Virudh (War Against Drugs).
About Punjab anti-drug campaign:
- What It Is?
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- A statewide campaign aimed at dismantling the drug mafia and eradicating drug addiction.
- Positioned as both a law enforcement measure and a social awareness movement.
- Key Initiatives:
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- Reward Policy – Police officers recovering >1 kg heroin will get ₹1.2 lakh.
- Awareness in Schools – Anti-drug syllabus introduced and mega Parent–Teacher Meeting involving 20 lakh parents & students.
- Community Action – Villages passing resolutions to declare themselves drug-free.
- Defence Committees – Formed in towns and villages to monitor local-level activities.
- Youth Engagement – Sports policy, “Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan” games, new stadiums to divert youth from drugs.
Relevance in UPSC Syllabus:
- GS-II (Governance, Welfare Schemes, Social Justice):
- Examines state-level initiatives to tackle drug menace, law enforcement reforms, and public health measures.
- GS-III (Internal Security, Social Issues):
- Links to national security (cross-border smuggling).
- Focus on organized crime and its nexus with politics.
- Ethics Paper (GS-IV):
- Role of leadership in curbing social evils.
- Ethical governance vs. patronage of mafias by earlier regimes.
