Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has intensified its efforts to make the state ganja-free, while also working to provide alternative livelihoods for tribal communities involved in illegal cannabis cultivation.
This was informed by Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Thursday.
“Joint operations by the Excise and Police departments have already resulted in the destruction of ganja crops across several districts this year,” Harichandan told reporters after the flag-off ceremony of a walkathon against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
The minister alleged that members of tribal communities are often lured by drug mafias into cultivating the illegal crop with promises of financial gain.
“Drug mafias often lure members of tribal communities into ganja cultivation with the promise of quick financial returns. The government is planning to offer sustainable livelihood alternatives to discourage this practice,” Harichandan said.
He added that the crackdown on illegal cultivation will continue alongside community awareness drives to prevent drug abuse.
The walkathon began at Kalinga Stadium and concluded at Janata Maidan.
Harichandan emphasised the importance of guiding the youth toward healthy and productive lifestyles.
