Transforming Moga: How This Punjab Village is Winning the Fight Against Drugs with Cash Rewards and Healthy Living

In a small village called Ransih Kalan in Moga district, Punjab, a significant anti-drug initiative is taking place. This campaign, named ‘Nasha Mukti da Abhiyan, Ransih Kalan Banu Punjab di Shan,’ aims to help all 452 families in the village stay away from drugs and alcohol. It is part of a larger effort by the Punjab government to combat drug abuse.

The village leader, Preetinder Pal Singh, known as Mintu Sarpanch, is the driving force behind this project. He has implemented cash rewards to encourage families to stay drug-free. Families can earn Rs 11,000 if they report being drug-free and Rs 1,100 for maintaining a healthy diet during recovery. Additionally, free treatment options are available for those seeking help.

Recently, 29 families declared themselves drug-free, including 13 that made this commitment just last Saturday. Remarkably, 281 families have been drug-free for an extended period. “We want to ensure not a single liquor shop operates in our village this year,” Mintu Sarpanch stated. They’ve also restricted chemists from selling harmful substances and banned the sale of cigarettes and energy drinks in general stores.

Many residents, like Kuldeep Singh, are optimistic about becoming a completely drug-free village. “With the panchayat’s support, we believe we can achieve this goal soon,” he said.

Beyond tackling drug abuse, Ransih Kalan has previously worked on other community issues, such as developing a water treatment plant and launching an initiative to reduce plastic waste. They also encourage sustainable farming practices by rewarding farmers who refrain from burning crop residue.

### The Bigger Picture

This initiative reflects a broader trend in India where local governments and communities take proactive measures to address drug abuse. Recent data shows that Punjab has one of the highest rates of drug usage in India, with an estimated 80% of young people being at risk. Societal impacts, including health issues and crime rates, underline the need for community-driven solutions like these.

Experts emphasize the importance of grassroots programs combined with government support. Dr. Sukhdeep Singh, a health expert in addiction, insists that community initiatives can complement state programs effectively. “When local leaders take charge, it creates a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents, which is crucial for success,” he explains.

In the age of social media, stories like that of Ransih Kalan spread quickly. On platforms like Twitter and Facebook, users share their stories of recovery, advocating for similar initiatives in their regions. This helps create a supportive network that can encourage more villages to adopt these practices.

In conclusion, Ransih Kalan’s journey offers a hopeful example of how small communities can fight back against the drug crisis. Through dedicated leadership and community engagement, they are not only addressing addiction but also fostering a healthier, united future for their villagers.



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