Society must resolve to build drug-free Punjab, says Haryana CM

Jalandhar, July 5 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday said that society must collectively resolve to build a drug-free and educated community while pursuing systemic reform and nation-building.

“Only then can meaningful contributions be made towards creating a society rooted in service, respect and values,” he added.

CM Saini was addressing a ceremony dedicated to the 39th Dikshant and Seva Samman of Piyush Muni Maharaj in Punjab’s Jalandhar city.

The Chief Minister said saints guide society through a life of service and dedication and illuminate the lives of others through the light of knowledge. “Their thoughts and teachings are devoted to the service of humanity.” He said, “People should strive to become individuals of character, values and human sensitivity rather than merely seeking wealth”.

CM Saini said, “There is no religion greater than service, no worship greater than compassion, and no faith greater than humanity. Social organisations are shaping the future of society by spreading awareness against drug abuse, promoting girls’ education, helping poor families and strengthening family values. Saints have shown the path of truth, non-violence, discipline, service and dedication, and people must draw inspiration from their lives”.

The Chief Minister said political ambitions have pushed the vision of a vibrant Punjab backwards. “Punjab is burdened with a debt of over Rs 4 lakh crore and the average debt per person has crossed Rs 1.25 lakh.” He said the soil of Punjab “carries the wisdom of the Gurus, the sacrifices of martyrs, the hard work of farmers and the fragrance of brotherhood. The relationship between Punjab and Haryana is not merely one of geographical boundaries but one of shared hearts and emotions”.

CM Saini said the Aam Aadmi Party had made tall promises of eliminating drug abuse, but Punjab “today is grappling with drug addiction and gangster culture”. He added that the BJP government in Haryana has provided positive opportunities to youth through employment generation, skill development initiatives and sports policies. Punjab and Haryana are neighbouring states.

“Punjab is known as the land of farmers, yet its farmers continue to face repeated concerns and uncertainty regarding crop procurement, payments and mandi operations.” He further said Punjab’s youth are facing serious concerns. During the April-June quarter of 2025-26, Punjab’s unemployment rate stood at 8.8 per cent. In contrast, Haryana is providing opportunities to its youth, while Punjab is witnessing only hollow promises, he added.

–IANS

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