Odisha Government Launches Campaign for a Ganja-Free State

Bhubaneswar : In a major step towards curbing drug abuse, the Odisha government has launched a structured campaign to make the state completely free from ganja (cannabis) cultivation and trade. Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan announced on Thursday that a well-planned initiative is underway to eradicate illegal ganja farming and its associated black market.

Addressing the media, the minister appealed to the general public, especially in tribal-dominated regions, to refrain from engaging in ganja cultivation. He expressed concern that drug mafias often lure tribal communities into cannabis farming with false promises of economic gain.

The government is also working on providing alternative livelihood programs for these communities. “This year, we have destroyed the highest amount of illegal ganja plantations. We are committed to ending this illegal trade and protecting our tribal population from exploitation,” the minister stated.

The Excise Department and Police are coordinating joint strategies to closely monitor and eliminate ganja cultivation and to take strict action against those involved. The minister emphasized that this is not just a law enforcement initiative, but a social responsibility towards building a healthier and drug-free Odisha.