Odisha's Bold Move: Aiming for a Ganja-Free State with Support for Tribal Communities

Odisha's Initiative Against Drug Cultivation

Bhubaneswar: The government of Odisha has launched a campaign aimed at eradicating ganja cultivation in the state while also offering alternative livelihoods to tribal communities involved in illegal farming, as stated by Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Thursday.

During the inauguration of a walkathon aimed at combating drug abuse and illegal trafficking, Harichandan informed the media that collaborative efforts between the excise and police departments have led to the destruction of ganja crops in various districts this year.

The minister pointed out that drug cartels often entice tribal members into growing this illegal crop with promises of financial rewards.

He added, “We are developing strategies to provide alternative livelihood options for these tribal groups to prevent them from engaging in ganja cultivation.”

Harichandan stressed the importance of monitoring drug traffickers while educating the local communities.

The walkathon commenced at Kalinga Stadium and concluded at Janata Maidan.

According to Harichandan, the event aimed to foster a healthy and peaceful society by steering the youth away from drugs.