Bhubaneswar: Odisha Police has intensified its statewide crackdown on illegal cannabis cultivation, destroying thousands of acres of illicit plantations across multiple districts through coordinated operations using special task teams, drones, satellites, and intelligence-based surveillance. Aimed at protecting public welfare and safeguarding the future of youth, police units in affected districts have formed specialised squads that continue to trace and eliminate illegal cannabis fields, especially in remote and inaccessible regions. The ongoing effort marks one of the largest anti-narcotics campaigns in the state’s history. According to official data, over 18,111 acres of cannabis cultivation have already been destroyed in 2025, with the campaign scheduled to continue until March 2026.
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By the end of November this year, 473 cases related to marijuana smuggling had been registered across Odisha. Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania praised the rapid progress, stating that the large-scale destruction of illicit cultivation in such a short period represents a significant achievement. He assured that the campaign will continue with the same rigour in the coming months. In comparison, 594 cases were registered in 2024, and over 20,803 acres of cannabis plantations were eradicated statewide. Illegal cultivation continues to be reported in Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput, Boudh, Kandhamal, Gajapati, Ganjam, and Nabarangpur. Police are using satellite imaging and drone surveillance to identify and clear hidden fields. DGP Khurania reiterated that strict action would be taken against anyone involved in cultivating or supporting marijuana production.
