Fazilka (Punjab), Aug 1 (NationPress) - On Friday, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and AAP’s national convener Arvind Kejriwal introduced an innovative anti-drug curriculum aimed at enlightening eight lakh students as part of the ‘War Against Drugs’ initiative.

During the event, Kejriwal remarked, “This signifies the commencement of a new era in our fight against drugs, beginning in Punjab's border district.” He emphasized that Punjab's battle against drugs is now at a pivotal juncture. As part of the third phase of the campaign ‘Yudh Nashean De Virudh’ (war against drugs), a tailored syllabus will be implemented in all state-run schools for students in classes 9 to 12. This curriculum aims to raise awareness among eight lakh students about the perils of drug misuse and motivate them to avoid narcotic substances.

The former Delhi chief minister indicated that this anti-drug initiative will encompass 3,658 schools, with the participation of distinguished scientists to enhance student awareness. The curriculum will feature 35-minute sessions conducted bi-weekly over 27 weeks, incorporating documentaries, quizzes, posters, and interactive engagements. These sessions will cover essential topics such as debunking drug myths, strategies for refusing drugs, and resisting peer pressure.

Kejriwal further noted that the government has already initiated the ‘war against drugs’ campaign, resulting in the incarceration of over 15,000 drug traffickers, confiscation of properties, and recovery of more than 1,000 kg of heroin. Properties owned by drug smugglers are being demolished, and the most infamous drug lord has been apprehended by a dedicated government.

In his address, Chief Minister Mann highlighted the significant improvements in government schools due to the government’s efforts. He pointed out that students are transitioning from private to government schools, indicating growing public trust. Mann expressed regret that such circumstances necessitated these measures, attributing the drug crisis to previous administrations.

Mann stated that the stigma of drugs has tarnished the state's image due to former governments. He explained that upon taking office, the government required time to devise a comprehensive strategy and has since established de-addiction centers to support those seeking to overcome addiction.