Chandigarh/Mandi Gobindgarh: Punjab Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, participated as the chief guest in a marathon organized by the Municipal Council of Mandi Gobindgarh with the support of the district administration. The event, held on Thursday morning, commenced from the local Indoor Stadium and witnessed enthusiastic participation across all age groups.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Sond emphasized that the eradication of drugs requires the united efforts of every section of society. However, he underlined that the active involvement of youth plays a decisive role in ensuring the success of any such campaign. He appreciated the enthusiastic participation of young people in the state-wide anti-drug initiative 'Yudh Nashiyan Virudh', launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
The minister informed that several large-scale programs are being carried out across Punjab to curb drug abuse. As part of the "Yudh Nashiyan Virudh", a dedicated sub-committee has been formed, of which he is a member. This committee monitors the daily progress of the anti-drug drive. Since the beginning of the campaign on March 1, 2025, a significant number of drug traffickers have been apprehended, and illegal structures related to the drug trade have been demolished.
He further noted the positive influence that celebrities have on the youth and expressed his gratitude to actors Karamjit Anmol, Dev Kharoud, and Binnu Dhillon for their presence at the marathon. Their participation, he said, served as motivation for the younger generation.
MLA Gurinder Singh Gary Barring, while addressing, urged everyone to stay away from drugs and to support those trapped in addiction by guiding them towards rehabilitation. He encouraged citizens to report drug traffickers or suspicious activities to the police without fear. The massive turnout of youth at the marathon, he said, sent a strong and clear message that Punjab’s youth stand firmly with the government’s mission to root out drugs.
The event was made possible with the significant contribution of Harpreet Singh Prince, President of the Municipal Council. International shooter Arjun Cheema also participated, interacted with the youth, and encouraged them to stay away from drugs.
During the event, SSP Shubham Agarwal also shared his views. Winners of the marathon were honored with prizes and medals.