Odisha to launch month-long anti-intoxication campaign from October 2

Bhubaneswar, Sept 24 (UNI) Odisha will launch a month-long awareness campaign from October 2, Gandhi Jayanti, with an aim to free the state from the clutches of drug addiction and intoxication.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will inaugurate the drive.
Chairing a preparatory meeting for the second phase of the campaign, Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said the initiative will run under the banners “Our Pledge – Life Without Intoxication” and “Addiction-Free Bhubaneswar.”
He stressed that collective efforts from all sections of society are vital to save Odisha from the grip of intoxication.

Harichandan noted that the illegal trade and consumption of intoxicants not only cause heavy financial losses but also claim precious lives.
Over the past year, sustained crackdowns have led to the seizure of contraband worth several crores of rupees and the arrest of numerous offenders.

Calling for further intensification of the drive, the Minister said, “Intoxication leads people astray, harms health, and often results in death. It is crucial to protect our youth and all sections of society through collective action.”
He emphasised the need to spread awareness in families, schools, colleges and rural areas about the dangers of addiction.
As part of the program, the Department of Sports and Youth Services will organize rallies and marathons and the School & Mass Education and Higher Education Departments will conduct essay and debate competitions.
The Forest Department will intensify destruction of cannabis and opium cultivation and the Culture Department and Mission Shakti will arrange street plays and awareness campaigns.
The Minister said health camps, workshops and road safety programs would also be included.
Principal Secretary to the Excise Department Bhaskar Jyoti Sharma, Excise Commissioner P. Anvesha Reddy, Additional Secretary Archana Daspatnaik, and senior Excise officials attended the meeting.