Home / Health / Punjab's De-Addiction Centers See 164% Surge in Admissions
Punjab's De-Addiction Centers See 164% Surge in Admissions
7 Sep
Summary
- Admissions to Punjab's de-addiction centers surged by over 164% in 2025.
- The 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' campaign has increased public confidence in treatment.
- Outpatient treatment registrations also saw a significant rise in 2025.
Admissions to Punjab's government de-addiction centers surged by an impressive 164% in 2025. The number of individuals seeking treatment increased from 9,577 in 2024 to 25,290 in 2025, reflecting growing public trust in the state's 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' campaign. By July of the current year, 2026, more than 14,000 people had been admitted to these facilities.
The Outpatient Opioid-Assisted Treatment (OOAT) clinic network also experienced expansion. New registrations climbed from 13,033 in 2024 to 17,702 in 2025. As of August 2026, over 12,500 new patients had registered, demonstrating a growing treatment ecosystem.
Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh highlighted the campaign's success, noting that more individuals and families are seeking institutional support. The campaign, initiated in March 2025, focuses on enforcement against smugglers, treatment and rehabilitation for users, and prevention efforts.
This increase in formal treatment seeking suggests a reduction in stigma surrounding addiction. The government aims to bring affected individuals back from addiction, restore families, and provide a clear path to recovery through its expanding treatment network.
