Bhubaneswar: In a determined effort to combat drug trafficking, the Odisha government has set an ambitious goal to eradicate the menace within the next two years. As part of this initiative, the state plans to amend existing laws to impose stricter penalties and fines on offenders, signaling a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal drug activities.
Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan emphasized the crucial role of state and district-level excise officers in achieving this objective. He urged officers to conduct frequent inspections and ensure strict compliance with excise laws, adding that consistent vigilance is vital in dismantling illegal drug networks.
During a high-level review meeting with District Excise Superintendents, Excise Commissioner-cum-Secretary Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar called for intensified crackdowns on illegal drug trafficking and unauthorized liquor outlets. She stressed the importance of adhering to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach involving regular enforcement actions and enhanced monitoring mechanisms.
The meeting also discussed the ongoing development of departmental infrastructure and training programs for officers and employees to strengthen enforcement capabilities. With the Excise Department being one of the state’s largest revenue generators, these efforts are expected to have a significant impact on Odisha’s economic growth.
The Odisha government’s focused approach to tackling drug trafficking aligns with its broader objective of ensuring public safety and fostering a secure environment for its citizens. By adopting stricter legal measures and reinforcing enforcement operations, the state aims to curtail the illegal drug trade, which poses a serious threat to public health and social stability.
With this two-year target, Odisha sets a precedent in combating drug-related crimes, aiming for a safer, drug-free future while bolstering its economic and social foundations.
