Village Defence Committees mobilised to counter drug menace, Says Governor
Ferozepur, February 10, 2026: Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Tuesday said that a neighbouring hostile country is conspiring to disturb peace in the state by smuggling drugs and weapons. He asserted that such attempts are being given a befitting response.
The Governor made these remarks while chairing a meeting with members of Village Defence Committees at the Deputy Commissioner’s office here. The meeting focused on strengthening the ongoing campaign to eradicate drug abuse from Punjab.
Interacting with the committee members, Governor Kataria said that the menace of drugs cannot be eliminated through government efforts alone and called for active participation from all sections of society, including parents, teachers, youth, community members and the administration. He encouraged the Village Defence Committees to play a more proactive role in the anti-drug drive and also sought their suggestions to make the campaign more effective.
Highlighting the importance of Village Defence Committees, the Governor said their role is crucial in monitoring activities at the village level. He urged members to keep a close watch on their villages and remain vigilant about the direction in which the youth are heading, so that no young person falls prey to drug addiction.
Governor Kataria also pointed out that unemployment and idleness are among the root causes of drug abuse. He said that connecting youth with employment opportunities can help keep them away from this social evil, and stressed the need to create more avenues for jobs.
Referring to Punjab’s rich legacy, the Governor said the state is the land of warriors, saints and martyrs, which has played a leading role in the freedom struggle, national defence and food security. He added that a decisive fight against drug abuse is essential to restore Punjab’s former glory and leadership role.
Among those present on the occasion were Governor’s Secretary Vivek Pratap Singh, Director Census Operations Lalit Jain, Red Cross Secretary Shiv Dular Singh Dhillon, Deputy Commissioner Deepshikha Sharma, SSP Bhupinder Singh, and members of the Village Defence Committees.