States » EastPosted at: Nov 6 2026 9:58PM


Odisha to declare 500-metre radius around educational institutions as ‘drug-free zones’

Bhubaneswar, Nov 6 (UNI) In a significant step towards safeguarding the younger generation from the growing menace of drug abuse, the Odisha Government has decided to declare a 500-metre radius around all educational institutions across the state as ‘Drug-Free Zones’ under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drug-Free India Campaign).
The initiative will cover schools, Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), polytechnics, colleges, universities, technical and professional educational institutions, as well as their hostels. The move aims to protect students from the harmful consequences of substance abuse and ensure a safe, healthy and drug-free learning environment.
The decision was taken at a high-level meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar under the chairmanship of Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Deo Ranjan Kumar Singh, official sources said.
The initiative is in line with the national campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 2, 2026, under the banner of ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’. The Prime Minister had appealed to young people to stay away from drugs and contribute towards building a developed and healthier India.
Similarly, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has repeatedly urged the youth to channel their energy towards sports, yoga, education and social service, promoting the message: “Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life.”
The decision also follows deliberations at the 9th High-Level Narcotics Coordination (NCORD) Committee meeting held on January 9, 2026, where the proposal to establish drug-free zones within a 500-metre radius of educational institutions was taken up.
Subsequently, the 8th State-Level NCORD meeting, held on October 3, 2026, under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary, further emphasised the need for effective measures to implement the proposal.
During the meeting, the Secretary of the Higher Education Department presented a comprehensive action plan for implementing the proposed drug-free zones and other initiatives under the national campaign.
A key feature of the action plan is the proposed constitution of two dedicated committees in every educational institution — a Drug-Free Campus Committee and a Mental Health and Welfare Committee.
The government also proposes to appoint nodal officers and select student ambassadors from among the students to strengthen awareness campaigns and encourage active participation in the fight against substance abuse.
Regular inspections will be conducted in coordination with the Police and Excise Departments to prevent the sale and distribution of drugs within educational campuses and the surrounding 500-metre zones. Violations will invite appropriate legal action.
In an important emphasis on the welfare of students, the meeting underscored that drug addiction should be addressed not merely as a disciplinary issue but also as a serious health and social concern.
Students struggling with substance dependence should initially be provided with counselling, medical treatment and appropriate assistance through de-addiction centres rather than being subjected to immediate punitive action.
The government also stressed the need to engage students in constructive and meaningful activities, including yoga, sports, cultural programmes and life-skills education.
To ensure effective implementation, the meeting also discussed a system of regular inspections and monthly compliance reports from educational institutions.
Institutions that successfully meet the prescribed standards may be awarded ‘Drug-Free Campus’ certificates, recognising their commitment to maintaining a safe and substance-free educational environment.
It was further decided that separate guidelines would be prepared to provide a clear framework for implementing the initiative across the state.
Emphasising the importance of coordinated efforts, Development Commissioner Deo Ranjan Kumar Singh directed all concerned departments to work together and extend full cooperation to ensure the successful implementation of the campaign.
He stressed that enforcement measures must go hand in hand with medical care, counselling and rehabilitation facilities for young men and women affected by drug addiction.
The decision to establish drug-free zones around educational institutions marks an important step in Odisha's efforts to protect its young population from the dangers of substance abuse.
UNI DP
Tags: #Odisha to declare 500-metre radius around educational institutions as ‘drug-free zones’
More News

Researchers discover new scorpion species in Similipal tiger reserve

06 Nov 2026 | 11:01 PM

Bhubaneswar, Nov 6 (UNI) In a significant addition to Odisha’s biodiversity records, researchers have identified a new scorpion species in Similipal Tiger Reserve, the first of its genus to be recorded in the State.
Named Liocheles Similipalensis, the species measures 44–53 mm and is distinguished by its glossy bluish-black appearance.

see more..

Manipur Governor says SARAS mela empowers women

06 Nov 2026 | 10:57 PM

Imphal, Nov 6 (UNI) Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, addressing the closing ceremony of the 18th SARAS Aajeevika Mela 2026 here, stressed the importance of preserving Manipur’s traditional skills and cultural identity while promoting ‘Made in Manipur’ as a mark of quality, authenticity and excellence.

see more..

Odisha restaurant fined Rs 45,100 for serving bread with dead fly

06 Nov 2026 | 10:56 PM

Bhubaneswar, Nov 6 (UNI) The Ganjam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission today imposed a penalty of Rs 45,100 on Zaikaa Restaurant at Ankuli Bypass in Berhampur for serving butter naan (bread) containing a dead fly and causing an inordinate delay in serving food.

see more..

Manipur: Health officials ask RIMS Imphal to implement tobacco related legislation

06 Nov 2026 | 10:27 PM

Imphal, Nov 6 (UNI) The National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), Manipur, organised a one-day state-level workshop on “Tobacco Industry Interference (TII) and Implementation of Article 5.3 of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC)” at Sushruta Hall, RIMS, Imphal today.

see more..

Manipur Women Commission Chief appeals to work on gender equality

06 Nov 2026 | 10:13 PM

Imphal, Nov 6 (UNI) Chairperson of MSCW, Th. Tiningpham Monsang, highlighting the role and responsibilities of the Commission in safeguarding the rights and interests of women, today urged women to be aware of their legal rights, speak up against violence and injustice, and approach the Commission for appropriate assistance and redressal.

see more..