Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, while presenting a ₹2.36 lakh crore budget for FY 2025-26, announced the first-ever 'drug census' to combat the growing drug menace in the state. The census will collect data on drug prevalence, usage of de-addiction centres, and socio-economic conditions of households.
Cheema emphasized that the battle against drugs must be fought scientifically using data rather than relying solely on force. The information gathered will help formulate a targeted strategy to address the issue.
The budget also includes a ₹5,598 crore allocation for the health sector, reflecting a 10% increase from the previous year. The state government has extended its health insurance scheme to provide universal coverage, benefiting all 65 lakh families with cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh per year. Additionally, a second line of defense with 5,000 home guards will be deployed along the Punjab border.
Other key budget highlights include ₹9,992 crore for power subsidies in agriculture, incentives for crop diversification in three districts, and a state-of-the-art shrimp processing unit for waterlogged regions. The cost of availing doorstep government services has also been reduced from ₹120 to ₹50.
Cheema reaffirmed the government's vision of a "Badalda Punjab" (Changing Punjab), emphasizing inclusive development and economic growth.
