The vigilant efforts of the public are significantly aiding the Border Security Force (BSF) and police in their fight against drug trafficking from Pakistan into Punjab. Over a year ago, Punjab Governor Banwari Lal Purohit initiated the formation of approximately 4,000 village-level Defence Committees to oversee drug-related activities and alert the authorities. A senior official from the Punjab Raj Bhawan revealed that the Governor plans to extend these committees throughout the state to shield youth from drug addiction in both rural and urban areas. To further this effort, the Governor has announced monetary rewards for individuals who report drones carrying drugs and drug traffickers. Hence, Public vigilance enhances coordination in Punjab’s fight against drug trafficking
Governor Purohit stressed the necessity of establishing village-level defense committees in every district to eliminate drugs across Punjab. He lauded the courage of border villagers, emphasizing their pivotal role in the battle against drug addiction and their contributions to the state’s development. The Governor also acknowledged the crucial contributions of women in these endeavors.
In a bid to recognize exceptional efforts, Governor Purohit announced cash prizes for committees or panchayats in six districts along the Indo-Pak border: Rs. 3 lakh for the first place, Rs. 2 lakh for the second place, and Rs. 1 lakh for the third place. Villages achieving a drug-free status will also be rewarded.
Since July 23, 2024, Governor Purohit has been meeting with residents in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Ferozpur, Fazilka, Amritsar, and Tarn Taran. Pathankot Deputy Commissioner Aditya Uppal organized the arrangements for the Governor’s visit, which included discussions in border areas and with village defense committees.
During a visit to the border area last October, Governor Purohit called on villagers to act as the “eyes and ears” of the security forces. He highlighted that while security forces are doing their part, local input and support are essential in preventing the influx of contraband and weapons. The Governor reiterated the importance of women’s involvement in eradicating drugs from society and their overall role in the state’s progress.
Governor Purohit noted that the village-level defense committees, initiated three years ago, are now producing positive outcomes. He assured that anti-drone technology would be deployed along the entire India-Pakistan border within a year to halt the smuggling of drugs and weapons via drones. He urged the public to resolutely combat drug dealers and warned against schemes aiming to disrupt Punjab’s unity and integrity, underscoring that Punjabis’ national interest remains foremost.
Punjab Chief Secretary Anurag Verma and DGP Gaurav Yadav echoed the Governor’s views, highlighting the crucial role of village-level security committees in aiding the police and BSF in controlling drug traffickers and anti-national elements. DGP Yadav announced a reward of Rs. 1 lakh for anyone assisting in intercepting drones from across the border and reaffirmed the ongoing support for the anti-drug campaign.