Odisha’s Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that no new liquor outlets will be established in the state for a period of three years as part of the government’s efforts to combat substance abuse. During the ‘Jiban Jindabad-2.0’ public awareness programme, organised by the Police Commissionerate, he emphasised the need for a zero-tolerance policy against both drugs and other intoxicating substances. This announcement reflects the administration’s ongoing commitment to address and mitigate the issues surrounding addiction.

Impact of Substance Abuse on Society

During his address, Majhi highlighted the profound impact substance abuse has on individuals, families, and society at large. He remarked that addiction is a significant contributor to various heinous crimes as well as violence against women. Additionally, he shared alarming statistics indicating that between 2.60 lakh and 2.80 lakh people die annually in India due to alcohol-related incidents. The Chief Minister pointed out that Odisha ranks second in the country for fatalities arising from drunk driving, further underscoring the urgency of the situation.

To tackle these issues, the Chief Minister has instructed both the state police and the excise administration to adopt stricter measures. This guidance aims not just at curtailing alcohol consumption but also at addressing high-risk drugs, including cannabis, opium, and synthetic narcotics. The commitment towards enhancing public safety through stringent enforcement measures against substance abuse was a key element of his message.

Majhi also detailed the steps the state government has implemented to combat illicit alcohol trading and the sale of counterfeit liquor. Local authorities are now held accountable for monitoring these activities. The government has also banned the production and sale of tobacco and products laced with nicotine, such as pan masala and gutkha, thus expanding its initiative to promote a healthier environment.

Educational Institutions Declared Substance-Free Zones

In a significant move to create a healthier educational atmosphere, the Chief Minister announced that all primary and higher educational institutions will be regarded as substance-free zones. This initiative aims to shield students from the negative influences of drugs and alcohol, fostering a safer and more conducive environment for learning.

Furthermore, at the awareness programme, Majhi launched a dedicated website managed by the Police Commissionerate, aimed at supporting the ‘Drug-free India’ initiative. This platform is intended to provide resources and information on substance abuse and encourage community involvement in the campaign against drugs and alcohol. The website will serve as a vital tool in raising awareness and utilising community support for this cause.

Overall, the Chief Minister’s announcements outline the government’s extensive efforts and comprehensive strategy to combat addiction in Odisha. The multi-faceted approach aims to not only address the immediate challenges associated with substance abuse but also create long-term solutions to ensure public health and safety. The initiatives taken reflect a commitment to safeguard future generations from the perils of addiction.

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