No new liquor shops for next three years: Odisha CM  

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Bhubaneswar: No new liquor shops will open in Odisha for next three years, announced Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi while addressing the “Jibana Jindabad 2.0″ public awareness program organized by the Commissionerate Police at the local Railway Auditorium today. He also issued a strong call to eradicate the menace of substance abuse from the state.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister launched a dedicated website by the Commissionerate Police focused on a ‘Drug-Free India’. Observing that substance abuse destroys not only an individual’s life but also entire families and society, the CM reiterated the State Government’s firm ‘zero-tolerance’ policy against drugs.

Describing human life as an invaluable gift from God, Majhi stated that true living lies in facing the obstacles and failures that come one’s way and moving forward. He remarked that while the ‘Jibana Jindabad’ campaign launched last year achieved significant success in curbing suicidal tendencies, the current ‘Jibana Jindabad 2.0’ initiative represents a comprehensive effort to steer the youth away from substance abuse and towards education, sports, and creativity.

On this occasion, performances such as ‘Jibana Jindabad’ and ‘Nishamukta Yubasamaj Bikashita Bharat’ (Drug-free Youth, Developed India) were presented by renowned artists from the state, alongside an awareness-raising play titled ‘Bhuta Manishara Nishaku Na’ (say no to the addiction that turns humans into ghosts). While highly praising the drama and dance performances, the Chief Minister stated that everyone should derive valuable life lessons from these plays.

Expressing deep concern over the fact that substance abuse has become a primary cause behind many heinous crimes and violence against women in the current scenario, the Chief Minister noted that approximately 260,000 to 280,000 people die in the country annually due to alcohol consumption alone.

Mohan also acknowledged that it is a matter of grave concern that Odisha ranks second in the list of fatalities resulting from drunk driving. He has directed the state police and excise administration to take even stricter, proactive measures against not only alcohol but also high-risk drugs such as cannabis, opium, cocaine, heroin, brown sugar, and synthetic drugs.

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Highlighting the various firm measures adopted by the state government, the CM stated that, in accordance with the new excise policy effective from April 1st, no new liquor shops will be opened for the next three years.

Furthermore, the local administration has been made accountable for the trade of illicit and spurious liquor. The production and sale of tobacco and nicotine-laced paan masala and gutkha have been completely banned, and school and college campuses have been declared ‘substance-free’ zones.

He asserted the Odisha government’s commitment to realizing the goal set by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to make India completely free from substance abuse by the end of 2029.

Finally, the Chief Minister advised parents to view any changes in their children’s behavior and conduct as a ‘red flag.’ He remarked that it is a ray of hope to see the youth staying away from substance abuse and showing interest in spending that money on healthy items like protein and energy drinks instead. The Chief Minister called upon everyone at today’s event to build a healthy, aware, and prosperous Odisha by taking the messages—”Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life” and “Life is beautiful, Don’t destroy it”—to every village and city.

Director General of Police Vinyatosh Mishra , Police Commissioner Suresh Devadutta Singh, along with senior police officers, distinguished guests, and a large number of students and youths, were present at the event.

Also Read: Odisha Secures Centre Of Excellence For Classical Pali At CUO

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