Odisha Launches ‘Operation Prahar’ to Combat Drug Menace Statewide
In a bold move to curb drug abuse and trafficking, the Odisha government has announced a statewide campaign titled Operation Prahar, set to launch on September 1.
Spearheaded by a Special Task Force (STF) in collaboration with the Excise Department, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), the initiative aims to make Bhubaneswar a model drug-free city and extend its impact across all districts.
The campaign was finalised during a high-level meeting chaired by State Law, Works, and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan at Lok Seva Bhawan.
Key officials, including Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Excise Commissioner P. Anwesha Reddy, and NCB Regional Director Kuldeep Sharm, pledged full administrative support.
Legal provisions under the NDPS Act and CrPC Section 110 (BNSS-129) will be enforced against repeat offenders and professional criminals.
The government also plans to establish at least one model de-addiction centre in every district and intensify raids in educational institutions to prevent campus-level drug peddling.
Minister Harichandan emphasised the need for strategic, tech-driven interventions to dismantle trafficking networks. “Drug abuse fuels criminal activity and threatens societal well-being. Operation Prahar is our commitment to reclaiming safe public spaces,” he stated.
The campaign marks a significant step in Odisha’s fight against narcotics, blending enforcement with rehabilitation to build a healthier, safer future.
