The Punjab Government is all set to ban the sale of energy drinks to the youth below 18 years of age.
These drinks will also be banned at places frequented by children, including school canteens and shops located in the vicinity of schools.
Dr Balbir Singh, Health Minister, said drug addiction was starting at the school level. He said after his recent visit to schools in various districts, he learnt about students getting addicted to these energy drinks and strawberry quick (a form of crystal meth that looks like strawberry candies).
“While strawberry quick is sold near schools, energy drinks, which cost just Rs 20 per bottle, are sold in many school canteens and shops located in places frequented by students. We will ensure that their sale is banned,” he said here today.
Dr Balbir Singh said the issue had been discussed by members of the Cabinet committee, formed to monitor the state government’s war on drugs.
Credit: tribuneindia.com