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Chandigarh: In a significant move to combat the escalating drug problem, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced the state’s first-ever “drug census” during his budget speech on Wednesday. The census, scheduled for the next fiscal year, aims to comprehensively map the prevalence of drug usage across every household in Punjab.
Presenting a Rs 2.36 lakh crore budget for the financial year 2025-26, Mr. Cheema highlighted the drug menace as the “biggest threat to the progress and prosperity of Punjab.” He emphasized the need for a scientific approach to tackling the issue, stating, “We have to fight this war not just with force and weapons but also scientifically through data and analysis.”
The drug census will gather crucial data on drug prevalence, usage of de-addiction centers, and the socio-economic status of Punjab’s residents. This data will be instrumental in formulating an effective and scientific strategy to eradicate the drug problem.
The budget also allocated a substantial Rs 5,598 crore for the health sector, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. Notably, the state health insurance scheme will be made universal, covering all 65 lakh families in Punjab with a Rs 10 lakh annual cover. This includes a Rs 5 lakh top-up for those already enrolled in central government schemes. “Sehat Cards” will be issued for cashless treatment at government and private hospitals.
Other key announcements included:
- Deployment of 5,000 home guards along the border to strengthen security.
- A Rs 9,992 crore power subsidy for the agriculture sector.
- A new scheme to incentivize crop diversification, focusing on Kharif maize in Bathinda, Kapurthala, and Gurdaspur.
- Establishment of a shrimp processing unit to support farming in waterlogged areas.
- Reduction of doorstep delivery service costs from Rs 120 to Rs 50.
- The “Rangla Punjab Vikas Scheme” to address local developmental needs.
Mr. Cheema also took a dig at previous administrations, accusing them of leaving behind a legacy of “Udta Punjab,” and asserted that the AAP government is committed to building a “Rangla Punjab.” He cited a 9% economic growth rate for the current year, based on Advance Estimates from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics.
The budget, however, remained silent on the promised monthly Rs 1,000 allowance for women, a key poll promise of the AAP. No new taxes were imposed.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on the provided information and should be treated as a summary. For complete and accurate details, please refer to official government sources and budget documents. Economic projections and policy outcomes are subject to change and should not be considered as financial or legal advice.(https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/in-budget-2025-speech-punjab-minister-harpal-singh-cheema-announces-first-ever-drug-census-praises-bhagwant-mann-8014471)
