Bhubaneswar: In a decisive move to curb drug abuse among students, the Odisha government has drawn up a comprehensive plan to make all college and university campuses across the state drug-free.
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on announced that an Anti-Drug Inspector will be appointed in every campus to monitor and coordinate preventive measures. A faculty member from each institution will be entrusted with this responsibility.
The initiative aligns with the guidelines issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to ensure a drug-free academic environment. The government’s strategy emphasizes awareness and preventive care through activities such as interactive discussions, yoga sessions, physical fitness programmes, and promotion of nutritious food habits throughout the week in higher education institutions.
“After witnessing drug-related incidents in some colleges and universities across the country, the UGC has initiated a nationwide drive to build drug-free campuses. The Odisha government will implement it in full spirit,” said the Higher Education Minister.
The state’s Higher Education Department is expected to issue detailed instructions to colleges and universities soon, outlining the roles and responsibilities of the appointed Anti-Drug Inspectors and the framework for awareness activities.
