Punjab’s drug crisis demands concrete policy, not empty slogans

The Indian Express has highlighted the escalating drug problem in Punjab, calling for a shift from rhetorical slogans to a detailed, actionable policy framework. The editorial points out that despite repeated public statements, the state continues to grapple with rising addiction rates, especially among young people, affecting families and community stability.

Experts cited in the piece argue that effective mitigation requires coordinated efforts across health services, law‑enforcement, education and rehabilitation sectors. A robust policy would include expanding treatment facilities, strengthening monitoring of drug supply chains, and launching awareness programmes that go beyond superficial messaging.

The newspaper urges the Punjab government to allocate dedicated resources, set measurable targets, and involve civil society in designing interventions. By moving from symbolic gestures to concrete steps, officials can better address the root causes of substance abuse and curb its spread across the state.

Stakeholders, including NGOs and medical professionals, have long advocated for such a multi‑pronged approach, emphasizing that slogans alone cannot reverse the trend. The editorial concludes that only a sustained, policy‑driven response can protect Punjab’s future generations from the scourge of drugs.