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Chandigarh: The Punjab Government on Wednesday launched an extensive Drug and Socio-Economic Census across the state, deploying 28,000 employees to survey nearly 65 lakh families in a major effort to assess the scale and impact of drug abuse.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the survey aims to generate granular data on the drug problem while also mapping the income, education levels and socio-economic conditions of affected individuals. “The idea is to understand the drug problem and then make targeted policies which will have better outcomes,” he said. The survey is expected to be completed within three months, with the government allocating ₹150 crore for the exercise in the 2026–27 financial year.
Meanwhile, health experts are demanding a survey of tobacco smoking addiction as well. Ex-Director of Health Services, Punjab and President of Public Health at the Strategic Institute for Public Health Education and Research(SIPHER), Dr Rakesh Gupta, a Certified Tobacco Cessation Specialist(CTCS), says,” The government must include Nicotine addiction in the survey. It is more addictive than Heroin and is a gateway to other drugs.”
Shift Towards Rehabilitation
Officials said the census marks a policy shift from enforcement to rehabilitation, as the government seeks to design evidence-based interventions for de-addiction and social reintegration.
The data collected will help identify:
- The extent of drug abuse across regions
- Types of substances being used
- Age groups affected
- Educational and economic background of users
Officials believe this will enable the formulation of more targeted rehabilitation and welfare policies.
Pilot Study Signals Positive Response
A pilot survey conducted in 11 villages has shown encouraging results, with residents reportedly cooperating and sharing information openly.
Officials said the willingness of people to participate reflects a growing awareness and hope that such initiatives could help address Punjab’s long-standing drug menace more effectively.
The census is among the most comprehensive exercises undertaken by the state to tackle the issue through a data-driven and socio-economic approach.
