The Odisha Police has reported a landmark achievement in its ongoing anti-drug operation s, marking one of the most extensive crackdowns on narcotics in the state’s history.
Between January 1, 2025, and February 28, 2026, law enforcement agencies destroyed illegal cannabis cultivation worth over ₹1,444 crore and seized narcotics valued at thousands of crores.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Odisha Police has intensified enforcement and awareness efforts across the state.
Major Seizures and Actions
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Illegal cannabis cultivation destroyed: 48,160 acres (₹1,444 crore approx.)
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Cannabis seized: 2,69,166 kg (₹1,346 crore approx.)
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Hashish oil seized: 1,862 litres (₹200 crore approx.)
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Brown sugar seized: 20.69 kg (₹41.7 crore approx.)
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Cough syrup bottles seized: 1,01,755 (₹10.17 crore approx.)
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Inter-state drug traffickers arrested: 654 individuals
These figures highlight the enforcement efforts undertaken by Odisha Police.
Targeting Drug Networks and Naxal Links
Authorities noted that illegal cannabis cultivation was largely concentrated in Naxal-affected regions, where it served as a source of illegal income. Continuous operations have significantly reduced such activities, with cannabis cultivation declining by nearly 50% in districts like Gajapati, Rayagada, and Koraput.
Once active in 12 districts, Naxal influence has now been limited to just 2–3 districts, reflecting the success of coordinated policing strategies.
Major Bust: Hashish Oil Unit in Koraput
In a recent operation, police dismantled a major hashish oil manufacturing unit in Koraput, seizing over 1,800 litres of oil worth nearly ₹200 crore. Authorities also confiscated more than 1,000 kg of cannabis and arrested seven individuals, including suspects from Kerala.
Strict Enforcement and Legal Measures
Odisha Police has taken strong legal action targeting habitual offenders and dismantling financial networks linked to drug trafficking. Assets worth over ₹10 crore have been seized to weaken illegal operations.
Additionally, 67 tonnes of cannabis have been destroyed in the past two years, reinforcing the state’s zero-tolerance approach.
Awareness and Rehabilitation Efforts
Alongside enforcement, Odisha Police is prioritising rehabilitation and community awareness:
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52 de-addiction centres operational across 29 districts
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Free treatment, food, and vocational training provided
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19,395 individuals successfully rehabilitated
Awareness campaigns are being conducted in schools, colleges, and public spaces to promote a drug-free lifestyle.
Future Roadmap: Drug-Free Odisha
Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania announced that a statewide special anti-drug drive will begin on April 1, 2026. The goal is to completely eradicate narcotics from Odisha within the next three years.
Authorities have urged citizens to actively support this mission by reporting any drug-related activities to the nearest police station or helpline.
