Punjab launches India’s first mental health fellowship to strengthen anti-drug campaign

Babushahi Bureau

Chandigarh, November 21, 2025: In a major push to strengthen Punjab’s fight against substance abuse, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh on Friday launched the ‘Leadership in Mental Health Programme’—India’s first fellowship focused on reducing substance use and improving mental wellbeing.

The initiative is a joint effort of the Punjab Health Department, Dr B.R. Ambedkar Institute of Medical Sciences, Mohali, and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai.

Dr. Balbir Singh said the fellowship will bring 35 mental health professionals from India and abroad to support prevention, treatment and rehabilitation efforts across all 23 districts.

“Only a swasth Pu

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