Mothers are the first line of defence against drugs: Punjab Lit Foundation

The initiative, spearheaded by author Khushwant Singh, co-founder of the foundation and former state information commissioner, aims to empower women to act as the first line of defence against the rising drug epidemic among Punjab’s youth.

“Mothers are that invisible force at home which can ensure that young children do not fall into the deadly trap of drugs,” said Singh. “We are helping them realise their extraordinary role in keeping homes drug-free by skilling them through such seminars to recognise early symptoms and take timely steps. If we can turn this into a movement across Punjab, it can make a palpable difference in tackling this menace.”

He added, “Mothers are the chief ministers of their homes. Once they decide to shield their children from this problem, its eradication becomes inevitable.”

Talking to mediapersons, Singh said the Punjab Lit Foundation has so far sensitised between 3,500 and 4,000 mothers since the campaign began. “Every mother sensitised is a child saved. We are asking private and government school chains to sign MoUs with us so that such sessions can be conducted across branches, especially for mothers of students from Classes 8 to 12. We have gone as far as Ferozepur to carry this message,” he said.
Kaushal underlined that families should make it a practice to share at least one meal together and stay aware of the influences shaping their children. “A mother’s instinct is unmatched in saving her children, and through these workshops, we want to strengthen that instinct,” she said.

School principal Ira Bogra said there was an urgent need to protect children not only from drugs but also from excessive screen time and the misinformation spread through social media. “Faced with newer threats and dangers, the responsibility of parents at home and teachers in schools has increased severalfold,” she said.

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