Punjab launches fellowship programme to combat substance abuse

In a significant move to strengthen the state's fight against substance abuse, Punjab's Health Minister Balbir Singh on Friday launched the Leadership in Mental Health Programme as part of the ongoing anti-drug campaign Yudh Nashian Virudh.

This pioneering initiative is the country's first fellowship programme dedicated to reducing substance use and promoting mental well-being. It is a joint collaboration between the Punjab Health Department, Dr BR Ambedkar Institute of Medical Sciences, Mohali, and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai.

Speaking about the initiative, Balbir Singh said the fellowship will bring 35 mental health professionals from across India and abroad to enhance prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services in all 23 districts of Punjab.

"Only a Swasth (healthy) Punjab can be a Rangla Punjab (vibrant Punjab). To counter the rising epidemic of drug abuse, Punjab needs talented and compassionate youth to lead our fight against ignorance, stigma, and apathy," he added.

The two-year fellowship will provide early-career professionals a unique opportunity to work with the Data Intelligence and Technical Support Unit (DITSU), which is at the forefront of the state's comprehensive response to substance abuse. The fellows will undergo a two-week induction programme by TISS, Mumbai, before being deployed to the field.

Emphasising the Punjab government's commitment to institutionalising mental healthcare, Balbir Singh said, "The launch of the Leadership in Mental Health Programme underscores our focus on ensuring mental wellbeing for every person in Punjab."

"From providing public grounds for physical activities to offering unique fellowships to enhance mental health services, we are working towards providing accessible and compassionate healthcare to the people of Punjab," Singh said.

As part of the implementation, 23 fellows will be posted across Punjab's 23 districts, 10 fellows will work at five Cluster Resource Centres, and two will be based at the DITSU headquarters in Mohali.

Fellows will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 60,000 and benefit from specialised training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in public health infrastructure.