The Punjab Government has invited applications for the second batch of its Leadership in Mental Health Programme, an initiative designed to strengthen the state's response to substance abuse through mental healthcare, rehabilitation, and community engagement. The programme is part of the government's broader strategy to address drug addiction by combining healthcare services with public awareness and long-term rehabilitation efforts.
The Leadership in Mental Health Programme was launched in February 2026 with the objective of building a skilled network of professionals capable of supporting individuals affected by substance use disorders. According to the state government, the fellowship focuses on improving access to mental healthcare while promoting rehabilitation as a key component of the anti-drug campaign.
The programme is being implemented under the Punjab Government's anti-drug campaign led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The campaign emphasizes prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and community participation alongside law enforcement measures to address the challenge of substance abuse.
Officials stated that thirteen fellows from the inaugural batch are currently working in different districts across Punjab. Their responsibilities include supporting mental health services, assisting rehabilitation programmes, engaging with local communities, and helping government departments strengthen the delivery of mental healthcare.
The fellows also work with healthcare professionals, district administrations, educational institutions, and social welfare organisations to improve awareness about mental health and addiction recovery. The programme encourages evidence-based interventions and community participation to ensure sustainable rehabilitation for individuals recovering from substance dependence.
The Punjab Government believes that substance abuse is not only a law enforcement issue but also a public health challenge that requires coordinated efforts from multiple sectors. By integrating mental healthcare into its anti-drug strategy, the government aims to provide affected individuals with access to counselling, psychological support, and rehabilitation services that can help them return to normal social and professional life.
The second batch of the fellowship is expected to attract professionals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who are interested in public health, psychology, psychiatry, social work, policy research, healthcare management, and community development. Selected fellows will receive opportunities to work directly with government agencies and healthcare institutions while contributing to the state's rehabilitation programmes.
Public health experts have consistently highlighted the importance of combining medical treatment with mental health support for individuals recovering from addiction. Research indicates that long-term recovery often depends on continuous counselling, family support, community reintegration, and access to quality mental healthcare services.
The Punjab Government has stated that expanding the fellowship programme will strengthen district-level mental health services and increase awareness about addiction prevention. The initiative also seeks to improve coordination between healthcare providers, local administrations, and community organisations working in the field of substance abuse rehabilitation.
Applications for the second batch are now open, and eligible candidates are encouraged to apply within the prescribed timeline announced by the government. Officials expect the new group of fellows to further strengthen Punjab's ongoing efforts to reduce substance abuse through rehabilitation, mental health support, and community-based interventions.