Chandigarh, Nov. 9 -- Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday urged people of Punjab to join hands to make the state drug-free by 2029 and restore its prosperity, while criticising the AAP government for allegedly misleading people instead of fulfilling its election promises.
Addressing the Shri Vishwakarma Pooja Mahotsav at the 116-year-old Shri Vishwakarma temple in Phagwara, Punjab, Saini said protecting the youth from drug abuse was the responsibility of both the government and society. He called for strict action against those involved in drug trafficking and collective efforts to secure the future of coming generations.
Referring to Union Home minister Amit Shah's recent visit to Punjab, Saini said the target of making the state drug-free by 2029 could be achieved if people resolved to bring about a transformation in the forthcoming elections. "Punjab is like an elder brother to Haryana. If something can be achieved in Haryana, why can't it be achieved in Punjab? It is certainly possible. What is needed is the right intention, the right policy and dedication towards the people," he said.
Taking a swipe at Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Saini alleged that he was trying to mislead people through jokes rather than fulfilling the promises made during elections. He also expressed concern over unemployment, law and order and the condition of the state's youth.
Highlighting Haryana's welfare initiatives, Saini said the state was providing free dialysis to poor patients in government hospitals and had become the first state to formulate a rehabilitation policy for workers suffering from silicosis.
He also highlighted the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, under which artisans receive training, a daily stipend of Rs 500, toolkits worth up to Rs 15,000 and collateral-free loans of up to Rs 3 lakh at five per cent interest.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.