Bhubaneswar, Odisha: The Government of Odisha is planning a comprehensive initiative to declare the 500-metre radius around all educational institutions and their hostels across the State as drug-free zones. The initiative aims to protect young people from the harmful effects of substance abuse and ensure a safe and healthy learning environment.

The proposed measures will cover schools, ITIs, polytechnics, colleges, universities and other technical and professional educational institutions under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. A meeting in this regard was held at Lok Seva Bhawan under the chairmanship of Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Deoranjan Kumar Singh.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Higher Education Department Aravind Agrawal, Excise Commissioner P. Anvesha Reddy and senior officials from the Health, School and Mass Education, Skill Development and Technical Education, Home, Special Task Force and CID-Crime Branch departments attended the meeting.

During the meeting, the Higher Education Department presented a proposed action plan for implementing the drug-free zone initiative and other preventive measures. The plan includes the formation of Drug-Free Campus Committees and Mental Health and Wellness Committees in educational institutions, appointment of nodal officers and selection of student ambassadors from among students.

To prevent the sale of narcotic and other intoxicating substances within educational campuses and the 500-metre surrounding areas, regular inspections will be conducted in coordination with the Police and Excise Departments. Legal action will be taken against violations. The proposed measures also include installation of information boards, provision of complaint drop boxes and online grievance mechanisms, and monthly awareness programmes.

The initiative will also focus on engaging students in positive activities through yoga, sports, cultural programmes and life-skills education. Emphasis will be placed on providing counselling, medical treatment and assistance through de-addiction centres to students struggling with substance abuse.

The meeting also discussed regular inspections, monthly compliance reports and the provision of 'Drug-Free Campus' certification to institutions fulfilling the prescribed standards. A dedicated set of guidelines will be prepared to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of the initiative.

Addressing the meeting, Development Commissioner Deoranjan Kumar Singh said that the youth are the future of the country and the State, and protecting them from substance abuse is a collective responsibility of the Government, educational institutions, parents and society. He stressed the need for close coordination among the concerned departments, regular monitoring and sustained awareness campaigns. He also emphasised that treatment, counselling and rehabilitation support for individuals affected by substance abuse must receive equal importance alongside enforcement measures.