Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to Lead Anti-Drug Foot March in Border Districts from February 9

Chandigarh:Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria will launch an intensive anti-drug awareness campaign across Punjab’s border districts starting February 9, with a special focus on regions adjoining the international border with Pakistan. The campaign aims to sensitise people about the growing menace of drug abuse and encourage collective action against narcotics trafficking and addiction.

As part of the initiative, the Governor will undertake a four-day awareness foot march (padyatra) through select border areas, including Tarn Taran district, which has been identified as one of the most affected regions due to its proximity to the international border. The padyatra will cover villages, towns, and key public spaces, where interactions will be held with local residents, youth, students, and community leaders.

Officials said the campaign is designed to mobilise public participation and strengthen coordination between civil society, educational institutions, law-enforcement agencies, and local administration. Awareness programmes, street interactions, and public meetings will be organised along the route of the foot march to spread the message of a drug-free Punjab.

Governor Kataria is expected to emphasise the need for community vigilance, rehabilitation of drug users, and strict action against smugglers and traffickers. The initiative also seeks to encourage families and village-level institutions to play an active role in identifying early signs of addiction and guiding affected individuals towards treatment and counselling.

The anti-drug drive comes at a time when Punjab continues to battle challenges related to drug trafficking and substance abuse, particularly in border districts that are vulnerable to cross-border smuggling. State officials said the Governor’s padyatra would send a strong message of zero tolerance towards drugs and reinforce the administration’s commitment to tackling the problem.

More districts are likely to be covered in subsequent phases of the campaign, with the aim of sustaining awareness and preventive efforts over the long term.