Chandigarh;The continuous increase in the number of patients admitted to the de-addiction and rehabilitation centers of the Bhagwant Mann government under the 'Yudh Nashean Viruddh' campaign is a strong indication of the growing confidence of the people in the treatment infrastructure of the state.
The number of admissions in government de-addiction centers was 9,577 in the year 2024, which increased to 25,290 in the year 2025, thus registering an increase of more than 164 percent. The same trend continued in the year 2026 and by July, more than 14,000 people had been admitted to government de-addiction centres.
Significant increase in admissions after the start of the campaign
It is noteworthy that this increase in admissions has been seen after the 'War on Drugs' campaign started in March 2025. This increase is a strong indication that more and more families and individuals are reaching out to treatment centers rather than keeping their loved ones struggling with addiction or themselves in the dark of stigma.
The growing impact of this initiative in the state is of particular significance as many people suffering from drug addiction may have struggled with the problem for years before seeking formal treatment. As treatment and rehabilitation facilities are becoming a more visible part of anti-addiction initiatives, the focus is shifting from merely identifying the problem to actively connecting affected people to treatment and supporting their rehabilitation.
More than 224 percent increase in admissions to rehabilitation centers
A similar significant growth has been recorded in the state's rehabilitation network. The number of admissions to government rehabilitation centers is expected to increase from 2,644 in 2024 to 8,574 in 2025—an increase of more than 224 percent. By July 2026 itself, more than 5,800 people had been admitted to these centres, which is about 68 percent of the total admissions recorded in the year 2025.
Increased access to treatment is also reflected through Punjab's Outpatient Opioid-Assisted Treatment (OOAT) clinic network. New registrations have increased from 13,033 in the year 2024 to 17,702 in the year 2025, while till August this year, more than 12,500 new patients have been registered.
Comprehensive treatment system: many options available
These data point to a comprehensive treatment system that offers a variety of support options for people struggling with drug dependence—ranging from drug rehab centers and rehabilitation facilities to outpatient treatment.
The State Government has also utilized the rehabilitation related provisions available under the law. More than 11,000 persons have been granted immunity under Section 64A of the NDPS Act till August 27, 2026. Under this Act, legal immunity is provided to people suffering from drug addiction or accused of drug abuse or possession.
Dr Balbir Singh, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, said, “The sharp increase in admissions for Punjab is proving to be one of the most encouraging indicators of this initiative: people are continuously coming forward, families are seeking institutional support and the state's treatment network is reaching those who might otherwise have been left out of the formal treatment system.”
Three Pillars of the 'War Against Drugs': Action, Treatment and Prevention
He said, “‘Yudh Nashean Viruddh’ is based on three pillars—tough action against traffickers, treatment and rehabilitation for affected people and prevention to protect our children from drug addiction before it reaches them. Through treatment and rehabilitation, our endeavor is to bring people out of the clutches of drug addiction, reunite families and provide a real path to recovery for those struggling with drug abuse.”