Bhubaneswar: The state government is committed to intensifying the crackdown on illegal drugs and narcotics trade, with an aim to make the state free from illicit drug activities, Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said Wednesday.
Speaking at the inauguration of a 40-day training programme for Excise department constables, Harichandan said the role of the Excise department was crucial in preventing illegal drug and narcotics trade and conducting regular enforcement operations.
Illegal drugs and narcotics are causing loss of lives and livelihoods, the minister said, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi have been giving priority to the ‘Drug-Free India’ campaign.
Harichandan said Excise department officers and personnel had undertaken several notable enforcement measures over the past two years, including regular raids, to curb illegal drug and narcotics activities.
He urged the constables to make the most of the training, acquire the necessary knowledge and use it effectively to strengthen the department’s enforcement activities.