Odisha Launches Jibana Jindabad 2.0, No New Liquor Shops for 3 Years
Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday launched Jibana Jindabad 2.0, a statewide anti-addiction awareness campaign aimed at protecting youth from drug and alcohol abuse and steering them towards education, sports and creative pursuits.
The initiative was launched under the leadership of the Commissionerate Police in Bhubaneswar.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting the national vision of making India addiction-free by 2029.
He announced that Odisha’s new excise policy, effective from April 1, would not permit the opening of any new liquor shops for the next three years.
Majhi said addiction not only destroys individual lives but also adversely affects families and society.
Emphasising the importance of youth participation in nation-building, he urged young people to stay away from drugs and focus on constructive activities that contribute to personal and social development.
The Chief Minister noted that the first phase of the campaign had played a significant role in addressing social issues, including suicidal tendencies, and that Jibana Jindabad 2.0 would further strengthen efforts to combat substance abuse across the state.
Reaffirming a zero-tolerance policy towards narcotics and addiction, he directed law enforcement and excise authorities to intensify action against the trafficking and consumption of cannabis, opium, heroin, cocaine, brown sugar and synthetic drugs.
The state government has also continued its ban on tobacco-based products such as gutka and pan masala.
Educational institutions across Odisha have been designated addiction-free zones as part of the broader awareness and prevention strategy.
Expressing concern over crimes linked to substance abuse and the rising number of drunken driving incidents, the Chief Minister called upon parents, teachers and community leaders to play an active role in identifying early signs of addiction among young people.
The campaign carries the message, “No to addiction, yes to life” and “Life is beautiful, don’t destroy it,” encouraging citizens to adopt a healthy and responsible lifestyle.
