Bhubaneswar, Oct. 5 (UDN): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced that the state will not permit the opening of any new liquor shops for the next three years, as part of the government’s intensified campaign against substance abuse.
Addressing the ‘Jibana Jindabad 2.0’ public awareness programme organised by the Commissionerate Police at the Railway Auditorium in Bhubaneswar, Majhi called for collective efforts to build a drug-free and healthier Odisha.
The Chief Minister also launched a dedicated website of the Commissionerate Police focused on creating awareness about a ‘Drug-Free India’.
Zero Tolerance Against Drugs
Majhi said substance abuse does not affect individuals alone but can devastate families and create wider social problems. He reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance approach towards illegal drugs and directed the police and Excise Department to intensify enforcement.
Under the new Excise Policy, effective from April 1, no new liquor shops will be opened in Odisha for the next three years, the Chief Minister said.
He further stressed the need for stronger action against the illegal trade in liquor and dangerous narcotic substances, including cannabis, opium, cocaine, heroin, brown sugar and synthetic drugs.
Focus on Youth and Prevention
The Chief Minister said the ‘Jibana Jindabad’ campaign, launched last year, had played an important role in creating awareness about suicide prevention. The second edition has now expanded its focus to substance abuse, with an emphasis on encouraging young people to pursue education, sports and creative activities.
He urged parents to remain alert to sudden changes in their children’s behaviour, describing such changes as potential warning signs of substance abuse.
Awareness Through Art and Culture
The programme featured performances by renowned artists, including presentations based on ‘Jibana Jindabad’ and ‘Nishamukta Yubasamaj Bikashita Bharat’.
An awareness drama titled ‘Bhuta Manishara Nishaku Na’ was also staged to highlight the destructive consequences of addiction.
Appreciating the performances, Majhi said such cultural programmes can play an important role in educating young people and spreading awareness about the dangers of addiction.
Government Steps Against Substance Abuse
The Chief Minister said local administrations would be held accountable for illegal and spurious liquor trade. He also highlighted the ban on the production and sale of tobacco- and nicotine-laced paan masala and gutkha, besides declaring school and college campuses as substance-free zones.
Majhi also expressed concern over alcohol-related deaths and drunk-driving fatalities, and called for stricter preventive measures.
He reiterated Odisha’s commitment to supporting the national goal of making India free from substance abuse by the end of 2029.
‘Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life’
Calling for a united social movement against addiction, the Chief Minister urged citizens to carry the message of “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life” and “Life is Beautiful, Don’t Destroy It” to every village and city.
He said a healthy and aware youth population would be crucial to building a prosperous Odisha.
Director General of Police Vinyatosh Mishra, Police Commissioner Suresh Devadutta Singh, senior police officials, distinguished guests and a large number of students and youths attended the programme.