Drug addiction is something society has been dealing with for far too long. Far too many people have fallen victim to its dark clutches.

To combat the issue, Amar Ujala decided to take a bold step in Haryana, India, by launching a campaign, “Yudh Nashe Ke Virudh” (anti-drug campaign). With the aim of building a drug-free future, the campaign received widespread support from every corner of the state, including from several influential figures.

The campaign reached even the most remote villages and has started important conversations on the perils of drug abuse and the need to work toward eliminating this man-made disease from society. Notably, villages like Khedi Bulla in Jind and Chopta in Sirsa have come out with a drug-free status thanks to their strong, deep-rooted values.

Understanding the roots of addiction

Amar Ujala dove into a detailed investigation to understand the root cause of the drug crisis in Haryana. It was found 47% of women who were involved in the smuggling of drugs turned to it after becoming addicts themselves. Additionally, youth, farmers, and even athletes were involved in drug abuse.

This highlights the urgency to intervene and eradicate this problem from society. Further concerns were raised about the state of rehabilitation centres in Haryana. Despite their existence, lack of funding and infrastructure rendered many ineffective.

Driving awareness and change

The campaign was actively promoted through Amar Ujala’s print platform, supported by prominent leaders. They spread awareness through video campaigns urging citizens to help fight against drugs.

These people included: Nayab Singh Saini (chief minister), Amit Panghal (boxer), Dharambir Singh (a Bharatiya Janata Party Member of Parliament), Manoj Kumar (advocate), Gajendra Chauhan (actor), Yashpal Sharma (actor), O.P. Singh (director general of police in the Narcotics Control Bureau), and Dr. Kuldeep Singh (director general of health).

Initiatives undertaken

Several initiatives were adopted to underpin the campaigns success. These included:

• State-wide mobilisation: Hundreds of thousands of pamphlets were distributed in schools, communities, and colleges to spread awareness about substance abuse.
• Celebrity and government endorsements: Panghal, Chauhan, and others actively engaged with the youth, while officials like O.P. Singh and Dr. Kuldeep Singh extended their valuable support.
• Educational campaigns: Oath-taking ceremonies conducted in schools and colleges saw students and athletes taking the pledge to stay drug-free.
• Digital engagement: Applicants on the campaign portal received e-certificates by registering using QR codes printed in Amar Ujala’s coverage.
• Religious participation: Leaders from various communities reinforced the anti-drug message, building trust and unity, especially among youth.
• Consistent media visibility: Amar Ujala kept the issue in the spotlight with extensive coverage, maintaining momentum and public interest.

Policy impact and government action

“Yudh Nashe Ke Virudh” led to policy changes. On December 3, 2024, Chief Minister Saini announced strict action will be taken against drug peddlers.

He promised honours for the police and panchayats (local village councils) to urge them to help combat drug abuse. He also initiated the launch of a confidential complaint portal to enable citizens to anonymously report any known drug activity.

Promised plans to strengthen rehabilitation infrastructure included:

• 45 new de-addiction centres across subdivisions.
• Training for 18 doctors at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi.
• Improved facilities in existing centres.
• A 15-acre modern rehab centre in Sirsa combining farming, sports, and digital education for holistic recovery.

Legal reforms were discussed, especially the inclusion of 15 commonly abused substances under the NDPS Act. Crackdowns on interstate drug suppliers and meetings with Union Home Minister Amit Shah also emphasised the importance of nation-wide coordination.

A movement backed by the people

The movement inspired active participation from panchayats, khap leaders (traditional community elders), students, and athletes. The government was proud to share that nearly 3,500 villages were drug-free in response to the campaign.

A promising conclusion

The campaign ended on December 8, 2024. To celebrate its success, a grand ceremony was organised by Chief Minister Saini. While the campaign was over, Saini assured the masses the government will continue to support the movement.

With strong public engagement, impactful media outreach, and influence on state policies, “Yudh Nashe Ke Virudh” has laid a meaningful foundation for a drug-free Haryana.

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