In a major push toward building a drug-free state, Odisha Law, Works, and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan chaired a high-level virtual review meeting with District Excise Superintendents from across the state on Wednesday.
Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat (Addiction-Free India) and state priorities set under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Minister Harichandan ordered the execution of a comprehensive, intelligence-backed Special Enforcement Drive from October 10 to October 31, 2026.
Festive Season Preparedness and Zero Tolerance
Addressing officials, the Minister emphasized that the upcoming festive season heightens the risk of illegal narcotics smuggling and associated criminal activities. He instructed all district superintendents to intensify raids by coordinating closely with local police and district administrations.
”Substance abuse ruins lives and destroys the bright future of our youth. To realize the vision of a drug-free India, the Excise Department must adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward habitual offenders without bowing to any external pressure,” Minister Harichandan affirmed.
Strengthening Conviction Rates & Prosecution
Beyond field operations, the review focused heavily on improving conviction rates in courts. Minister Harichandan directed officers to gather robust, legally sound evidence during raids to ensure strict judicial penalties for offenders.
He also commended departmental performance, expressing gratitude to officers for achieving a 95% MGER (Monthly Growth Rate/Target Realization) during the current operational period.
Departmental Overview
During the meeting, Excise Commissioner P. Anwesha Reddy delivered a detailed presentation outlining district-wise enforcement statistics, including recent seizures, vehicle confiscations, and arrest figures. Additional Excise Commissioner Rudra Narayan Mohanty along with zonal heads and senior departmental officers also participated in the review.
