’Yudh Nashe Virudh’ Delivers Major Blow to Drug Mafia: 14,734 Arrested, Rs 74 Cr Assets Frozen: DGP Gaurav Yadav
“We’re not just catching drug smugglers We’re breaking their economy, their links, and giving addicts a way back to life”: DGP Gaurav Yadav
- Rs 10.76 crore drug money seized; 48 hawala operators held in economic blow to syndicates
- Over 6,000 users taken to rehab; police adopt empathetic approach with 1121 sent under NDPS Section 64-A
- AI-based mapping and GPS anklets in pipeline to track bailed smugglers; drone tech deployed at border
- ‘Each One Adopt One’ launched: Top cops to personally track recovery of individual users
CHANDIGARH, May 31:With the three-months long anti-drug campaign 'Yudh Nashian Virudh’ launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has delivered a major blow to the drug trafficking networks in the state, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on Saturday said that the relentless enforcement drive will be continued against drugs, with fresh exhaustive lists of drug peddlers and suppliers being prepared with inputs from Districts, Intelligence and ANTF for action against drug traffickers in the next 60 days.
“Another big focus area would be on persons released on bail, we have devised a system of monitoring their activities by taking village elders and village panchayats into confidence,” said the DGP, terming that bail cancellation of repeat offenders would remain a primary focus.
Punjab Police is also exploring the use of GPS anklets to track and monitor activities of big drug smugglers released on bail, said the DGP, while stating, “We are examining the proposal from legal point of view to track the movement and monitor activities of bailed out big smugglers through GPS anklets with the approval of competent Court,” he said.
DGP Gaurav Yadav said that with Punjab was the first in the country to devise a software— Punjab Artificial Intelligence System (PAIS)— in 2019, similarly, an AI-powered hierarchical database is being developed to map arrested persons under NDPS Act with backward and forward linkages to be traced upto two levels in each arrest.
He said that after conducting trials of advanced anti-drone systems along the Indo-Pak border to combat drone-based smuggling of narcotics, arms, and explosives, the Punjab Government has placed an order to deploy this advanced system. These systems are designed to detect, identify, and neutralise drones, aiming to disrupt cross-border smuggling network effectively, he said.
He said that Punjab Government has approved Rs 500 crores package for the upgradation and modernisation of the Jails under which every jail will have De-addiction centre so that inmates can avail de-addiction treatment.
Addressing a press conference at Punjab Police Headquarters here, DGP Gaurav Yadav revealed that Punjab Police has registered 8344 first information reports and arrested 14,734 drug smugglers— including 13,038 drug peddlers and 1,696 listed drug suppliers/distributors since March 1, 2025. He was accompanied by ADGP Anti-Narcotics Force Nilabh Kishore and IGP Headquarters Dr Sukhchain Singh Gill.
He said that due to strict enforcement huge recoveries of drugs have been made during this campaign including 586 kg heroin, 247 kg opium, 14 ton poppy husk, 9 kg charas, 253 kg ganja, 2.5 kg ICE, 1.6 kg cocaine, 25.70 lakh intoxicant pills/tablets and Rs 10.76 crores drug money from their possession. During the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign, illegally acquired properties of 144 drug smugglers worth 74.27 Crores has been freezed, while, 104 illegally constructed properties of drug smugglers were demolished by the local authorities during this campaign, he added.
The DGP revealed that the the Punjab Police have employed scientific investigation techniques including digital evidence, collection and financial tracking. Out of the 1205 cases decided during this period, 1085 cases resulted into conviction with a conviction rate of 90%, which is highest in the country, he said.
He said that intelligence reports and informal survey indicates disruption in the supply chain of drugs resulting in 50% increase in street level heroin prices and 40% increase in street level prices of synthetic drugs as a result of strict enforcement. Repeated, targeted, and effective CASO operations have forced notorious drug smugglers to abandon their homes and flee, disrupting local network and diminishing their operational capacity, he said.
He said that Hawala network has been effectively disrupted with the arrest of 48 big Hawala operators, resulting in recovery of Rs 10.76 crore. This has given a substantial setback to the economic infrastructure of drug smugglers and their network, effectively disrupting their funding channels and undermining their operational capacity, he added.
DGP Gaurav Yadav said that the ‘Safe Punjab’ WhatsApp Chatbot portal— 9779100200— emerged as a game-changer as it has received an overwhelming response from the public for its confidentiality feature encouraging individuals to report smugglers, addicts, and providing suggestions. Out of 7635 tips received, 1596 FIRs were registered after investigation which resulted in the arrest of 1814 accused, he said.
Citing that Punjab Police has adopted compassionate approach and prioritised the treatment of drug addicts as patients rather than criminals, he said that 1121 individuals caught with small quantity of drugs, were sent for de-addiction and rehabilitation under section 64-A of the NDPS Act. In addition, Police teams have also taken 5786 drug users to de-addiction centres for treatment, while, 6483 drug users were convinced by the police to take treatment from OOAT centres, he added.
Furthermore, he announced that Station House Officers (SHOs) will personally reach out to the bailed-out individuals, engage with them in a supportive manner, and obtain a self-declaration pledge that they will refrain from consuming or selling drugs. Additionally, SHOs will offer medical assistance to those in need, he said, while adding that strict action will be taken against repeat offenders.
DGP Gaurav Yadav also announced the 'Each One Adopt One' program where every police officer starting from the rank of DGP to downwards will adopt one drug user and focus on his/her de-addiction and rehabilitation. “Starting from myself, every officer— under the ‘Each One Adopt One’ program— will voluntarily adopt one drug user, and monitor his de-addiction treatment and motivate him,” he said, while exhorting more people should come forward and adopt one drug user to help them to bring back into mainstream.
Talking about future prevention strategies, DGP Gaurav Yadav said that Village Panchayats are being requested to hold meetings and assess the drug situation in their village to independently find out if their village is drug-free or not. “If the village is free of drugs, the Panchayat would be requested to declare their village ‘Nasha Mukt’ and if the village is not yet free of drugs, the Panchayat is requested to assess the present status and devise strategy to make their village drug-free,” he said.
Meanwhile, Citizens can report drug activities anonymously via Safe Punjab Helpline (9779100200).
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Ludhiana West By-Election
6 Nomination Papers Filed on Sixth Day: Sibin C
Chandigarh, May 31:On the sixth day of filing nominations for the 64-Ludhiana West seat of the Punjab Legislative Assembly, six nomination papers have been filed.
Punjab’s Chief Electoral Officer Sibin C stated that today, Jatinder Kumar Sharma, candidate from the National Lok Sewa Party, submitted his nomination paper for the 64-Ludhiana West seat. In addition, five independent candidates Paramjit Singh Bharaj, Albert Dua, Kamal Pawar, Rajesh Sharma and Neetu have also filed their nominations. He further informed that a total of 14 nomination papers have been filed so far.
It is noteworthy that due to the public holiday tomorrow, June 1, nomination papers cannot be submitted. June 2 is the last date for filing nominations, while the scrutiny of nomination papers will be conducted on June 3.
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PUNJAB’S MARKET HOTS UP: MANDI BOARD EARNS ₹324-CR VIA E-AUCTION OF 720 PLOTS
• Growth attributed to CM Mann led Punjab Govt’s dedication to fostering conducive environment for all, says Gurmeet Singh Khudian
Chandigarh, May 31:Punjab's market is experiencing a notable upswing, with the Punjab Mandi Board's latest data of e-auction showcasing a strong upward trend after it has earned a whopping Rs.324 crore revenue via e-auction of plots in just six months, informed S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Punjab.
This growth is attributed to Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government's commitment to fostering a conducive business environment, marked by transparency to ensure competitive and secure environment in the state, he said while adding that the Punjab Mandi Board has achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting e-auctions for 720 plots across various mandis in the state, generating Rs.324 crore in revenue from December 2024 to May 2025.
S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian stated that the Punjab Mandi Board’s e-auction received an overwhelming response from traders, with 211 plots sold in May 2025 alone, valued at Rs 124 crore. The e-auction included 97 plots in Ludhiana, 30 in Kotkapura, 27 in Kurali, 23 in Talwandi Bhai, 18 in Mehatpur, six in Mohali, five in Rajpura and five in Phagwara.
The Agriculture Minister further informed that the Mandi Board auctioned 48 plots for Rs 28 crore in December 2024, 66 plots for Rs 48 crore in January 2025, 139 plots for Rs 53 crore in February, 256 plots for Rs 71 crore in March 2025.
S. Harchand Singh Barsat, Chairman Mandi Board said that this initiative is part of the Punjab Mandi Board's efforts to utilise its properties efficiently and generate revenue to further strengthen Mandi infrastructure in the state.
S. Harchand Singh Barsat said that the Punjab Mandi Board has revolutionised its e-auction process by embracing transparency and modern technology to create a competitive and secure bidding environment. This approach promotes transparency, encouraging substantial participation from traders. The e-auction process facilitates competitive bidding, allowing traders to participate efficiently and effectively. Leveraging technology has streamlined the auction process, making it more accessible and trustworthy for participants.
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-Historic Decision for Punjab’s Industrial Sector: PSIEC ANNOUNCES LANDMARK POLICY FOR CLUBBING AND DE-CLUBBING OF PLOTS
Appellate Authority Constituted to Reinstate Cancelled Plots – Sond
Chandigarh, May 31:The Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation (PSIEC) has taken a significant step toward enhancing land use efficiency with the approval of a comprehensive policy for the clubbing and de-clubbing of plots. Addressing a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Industries and Investment Promotion Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond announced the launch of a broad policy allowing clubbing and de-clubbing of industrial plots.
He said that the decision aims to address the long-standing demand from industrialists and property owners for a structured and transparent mechanism for clubbing and de-clubbing of plots under PSIEC. This decision addresses long-standing demands from industrial stakeholders to merge or divide contiguous plots to optimize land usage, boost operational efficiencies, and support project expansion. The policy applies to all plots under PSIEC’s jurisdiction, including those within focal points and industrial estates, excluding booths and sheds.
He said that as per notification, applications for clubbing or de-clubbing will be considered if the plots are owned by the same entity, i.e. the ownership of the proposed plots to be clubbed or de-clubbed shall be the same, and all outstanding dues are cleared at the time of application. The proposed clubbed plots should be on the same pattern i.e. freehold or leasehold and shall be have executed lease deeds/conveyance deeds (As applicable). A fee of one percent of the current reserve price of the total area of plots, or a maximum of ₹50 lakh, whichever is lower, will be applicable.
The minister clarified that de-clubbing will only be permitted in accordance with the original layout plans, and all approvals will be subject to building by-laws, zoning regulations, and environmental compliance. Sond asserted that this policy will pave the way for greater efficiency and optimal land use in the state’s industrial zones.
Tarunpreet Singh Sond also informed about the formation of an Appellate Authority for reinstating/re-alloting cancelled plots allotted by the Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation (PSIEC).
He stated that under various earlier schemes, numerous industrial plots were cancelled due to reasons such as failure to commence production within the stipulated period, violation of zoning norms, or default in payment of instalments. To address this issue and support industrial development, the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has constituted this Appellate Authority.
The Appellate Authority, notified on May 7, 2025, will provide a dedicated platform for affected allottees to appeal against cancellations and seek reinstatement of their plots. A comprehensive policy regarding clubbing and de-clubbing of industrial plots under PSIEC was notified on May 19, 2025.
Sond explained that approximately 700 plots were previously cancelled, and despite repeated requests from allottees, the earlier restoration policy, which was valid until March 31, 2022, had lapsed without resolution. The government has now responded to these demands by introducing a structured mechanism to offer fair hearings and transparent resolutions.
He further emphasized that the Appellate Authority will not only reduce unnecessary litigation but also ensure procedural clarity and support units facing genuine difficulties. The affected allottees now have the opportunity to file appeals for restoration of their plots by September 30, 2025. In future cases, appeals can be filed within six months of the date of cancellation.
Sond expressed confidence that these historic decisions will create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses in Punjab’s industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. He reiterated the state government's firm commitment to promoting industrial growth and assured continuous efforts to take Punjab’s industry to greater heights.
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MEGA PTM A HUGE SUCCESS, OVER 17L PARENTS PARTICIPATE
• EM Bains leads initiative to strengthen parents-teachers bond by visiting schools
• Environment Day and Bagless day also celebrated in schools
Chandigarh, May 31:In a bid to strengthen parents-teachers collaboration and boost students outcomes, the Punjab School Education Department hosted Mega Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs) in all the government schools across the state on Saturday, marking a first-ever initiative to engage and inform the parents about their children’s performance before commencement of summer holidays. said S. Harjot Singh Bains, Minister of School Education, Punjab.
S. Harjot Singh Bains today personally visited visited government schools in several villages of Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency, including Swamipur, Bhabor Sahib, Kalsera, Rampur Sahni, Maujowal, Chhotewal, Surewal, Sukhsal, Kulgran, to engage with parents, teachers and students.
Over 17 lakh parents have attended the Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs), showcasing an overwhelming response and enthusiasm to receive updates on their children's academic progress and overall development, said the Education Minister.
Highlighting the objective of the Mega PTMs, the Education Minister stated that the Mega PTMs aimed to boost student learning outcomes through active parental involvement. He added that school heads informed parents about holiday homework and encouraged them to ensure its completion during summer break.
Additionally, parents have also been informed about the syllabus for the bi-monthly test scheduled for July 15, 2025. Furthermore, parents and students in Classes III-VIII have been apprised of video lectures and practice questions under Mission Samarth, designed to promote continuous learning during the summer holidays.
Underscoring the School Education Department's commitment to fostering a collaborative learning environment in government schools, S. Harjot Singh Bains said that these interactions will further strengthen the bond between home and school, ultimately benefiting the students.
The Education Minister said that the Government schools also celebrated World Environment Day 2025 with activities promoting environmental conservation and sustainability, aligning with the theme "Ending Plastic Pollution Globally." Alongside the Mega PTM, over 19,000 government participated in tree plantation drives, cloth bag stitching demonstrations, cloth bag distribution, and School Nutrition Garden creation. This initiative aims to foster eco-friendly practices, reduce plastic usage, and promote sustainable living among students to create a greener future.
S. Bains said that Class 6th to 10th celebrated Bagless Day with hands-on activities, including handicrafts, games and artistic performances, to promote experiential learning. These initiative underscores the School Education department's commitment to student-centred learning and parental involvement, marking a significant step towards holistic education.
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SAILING TO SUCCESS: TWO MOHALI BOYS FROM MRSAFPI COMMISSIONED INTO INDIAN NAVY
• Aman Arora congratulates young officers on their remarkable feat
• 172 cadets commissioned in Indian Armed Forces so far
Chandigarh, May 31:Adding yet another feather in the cap of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (MRSAFPI), two ex-cadets of the Institute commissioned as Officers in the Indian Navy during the Passing Out Parade (POP) at the prestigious Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala (Kerala), on Saturday. The passing out parade was reviewed by Vice Admiral V Srinivas, AVSM, NM the Flag Officer Commanding in Chief of the Southern Naval Command.
Revealing this information here today, Punjab Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training Minister Mr. Aman Arora said that ex-cadets of MRSAFPI Mohinder Singh Sekhon and Vinay Kaushik, who have commissioned into Indian Navy, both belong to SAS Nagar (Mohali). Following the two years training at MRSAFPI, three years of rigours training at NDA and finally one year of service specific training at INA, the two young cadets would soon join the Indian Navy.
Notably, Mohinder Singh Sekhon, who lost his parents in childhood, realised his dream through sheer determination and hard work. Vinay’s father Mr. Sanjay Kumar is Sectional Head in The Tribune newspaper and his mother Mrs. Rekha Sharma is a homemaker.
Extending his heartiest congratulations to the young officers, Mr. Aman Arora complimented them on their remarkable feat and exhorted them to continue making the Nation and Punjab proud.
Major General Ajay H. Chauhan, VSM (Retd), Director of MRSAFPI, congratulated the cadets, while noting that 172 cadets have been commissioned as officers in Indian Armed Forces, including 20 in the Indian Navy. He also highlighted the achievement of cadets Arshdeep Singh (All India Rank 3rd) and Karan Kaushik (All India Rank 71st) in the AFCAT merit list, who are awaiting call-up letters to join the Air Force Academy.
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More than 600 complaints have been resolved in online NRI Milnees, says Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal
123 complaints received in sixth monthly online NRI Milnee held at Amritsar
Chandigarh/Amritsar, 31 May 2025:While conducting the sixth online NRI Milnee, NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal informed that more than 600 complaints of NRI Punjabis have been resolved so far in the online NRI Milnees. The sixth monthly online NRI Milnee held today at Amritsar to resolve the grievances of NRI Punjabis.
Speaking about today's Milnee, Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal said that today we have received 123 complaints from NRI Punjabis from all over the world through various platforms. He said that we are holding these NRI Milnees every month to resolve the grievances of NRI Punjabis. He added that all these grievances would be resolved before the next meeting which is to be held in the month of June.
He further informed that 658 cases have been received from different countries in these six months, out of which only 51 cases are pending due to court cases, all the remaining cases have been resolved. He appealed to all NRI Punjabis that they can raise their complaints in the NRI Milnees held every month. He further said that he is committed to resolve the issues of NRI Punjabis and feels great pride and happiness in resolving these complaints.
During the sixth NRI online Milnee, DIG NRI Affairs Rajpal Singh Sandhu, AIG Jagjit Singh Walia, AIG Ajinder Singh NRI Wing of Punjab Police, District Revenue Officer Navkirat Singh and other officials were present.