SSEPD dept draws up Rs 4.62 crore plan for a drug-free Odisha, seeks support from Centre

Bhubaneswar: The State government has drawn up an ambitious master plan to make Odisha drug‑free, with a comprehensive awareness and action strategy spanning schools, colleges, and panchayats.

The Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) department has prepared the Rs 4.62 crore plan and forwarded it to the Centre for approval. The initiative aims to curb substance abuse through sustained awareness, community mobilisation, and youth engagement.

Under the proposal, awareness drives will be conducted from schools to panchayats, covering 150 educational institutions across the State. Activities such as marathons, walkathons, and cycle rallies will be organised to spread the message of a healthy and addiction‑free lifestyle.

A budget of Rs 1.65 crore has been earmarked for awareness programmes, while Rs 76.4 lakh will be spent on mobilising 1,500 volunteers. Each district will have 50 “Nasha Mukta Mitras” to lead campaigns and counselling sessions. The plan also includes anti‑drug committee meetings in every block and awareness campaigns in 300 panchayats.

Officials said the initiative will involve schools, youth clubs, and local bodies to ensure grassroots participation.

SSEPD officials emphasised that the campaign will focus on prevention through education and community involvement rather than punitive measures. The department hopes the Centre’s approval will enable rapid rollout across all districts.

The master plan aligns with the State’s broader vision of building a healthier, more responsible society free from substance abuse.