India, Sept. 14 -- Punjab's youth sent a strong message against drugs and in favour of sports as nearly 20,000 youngsters and players participated in Youth Run Punjab-2026 in Bathinda on Sunday. The event gave a boost to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' campaign.

Children, youngsters, women and senior citizens joined the run. Winners received cash prizes of up to Rs.11,000, while all participants received T-shirts and participation medals.

AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal welcomed the response on X, saying this was the "new Punjab" where lost hope had returned and a spark was visible among youth. He said young people were taking the lead in fighting the drug menace with government support.

CM Bhagwant Singh Man...