AAP's Battle Against Drugs Takes Center Stage in Punjab's 2025-26 Budget

Punjab's 2025-26 budget, presented by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, emphasizes tackling drug addiction and boosting education and healthcare. The Aam Aadmi Party's government plans to introduce a Drug Census and appoint Home Guards to strengthen border controls. Enhanced emergency response measures are also expected to be featured.

In a significant move, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema met with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday ahead of the state Budget presentation for 2025-26. The budget marks the third for the Aam Aadmi Party since assuming power in 2022.

The 2025-26 budget is anticipated to prioritize development with a focused lens on education, healthcare, and drug eradication. A significant highlight is the government's intention to introduce a Drug Census, as mentioned by AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal recently. The strategy to combat drug issues may include appointing Home Guards to curb cross-border drug entry and allocating funds specifically for drug prevention initiatives.

Additionally, the budget proposes increased Emergency Response Vehicles and strengthening the Emergency Number 112 infrastructure. Meanwhile, under the 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' campaign, launched on March 1, 2025, the state has seen the arrest of 3,957 drug smugglers, recovering substantial contraband, including 137.7 kg of heroin. This initiative, steered by Chief Minister Mann and DGP Gaurav Yadav, aims to dismantle the narcotic supply chains in Punjab.

(With inputs from agencies.)