Chandigarh: In a landmark move against drug abuse, the Punjab government has launched India’s first government-led Mental Health Leadership Fellowship. CM Bhagwant Mann said the initiative will transform the fight against drugs from “a slogan into a ground-level movement” focused on families and the future of society.
The two-year fellowship will select 35 young professionals from psychology and social work backgrounds. They will work across all 23 districts in schools, colleges, community centres, and rehabilitation institutions to create a new model integrating prevention, treatment, and recovery.
The program is being run in collaboration with AIIMS Mohali and TISS Mumbai. Fellows will receive specialised training, mentorship, and leadership development to work closely with local communities.
Each fellow will earn a monthly stipend of ₹60,000, enabling them to dedicate themselves fully to Punjab’s mission against drugs and mental health challenges.
The initiative signals a new chapter in Punjab’s social transformation—one that recognises that the battle against drugs begins with strengthening the mind and community.
