Bhubaneswar, 05 June (H.S.): A state-level conference of Excise Superintendents was held at the Lok Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar on Friday, with a strong focus on intensified enforcement drives, awareness programmes, and coordinated action against illegal narcotics trade.
The meeting reviewed the performance of the Excise Department, noting that in the past two years, sustained raids have led to record seizures of illegal drugs and narcotic substances, along with the arrest of several offenders. Officials also highlighted ongoing awareness initiatives aimed at educating youth and discouraging drug abuse.
Addressing the conference, Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan emphasized the need for strict action against professional offenders involved in the illegal drug trade. He directed officials to rely on intelligence inputs, conduct regular raids, and ensure proper collection of evidence to secure convictions in courts.
The Minister noted that illegal narcotics trade not only leads to loss of life and property but also contributes to law and order challenges in the state. He stressed the importance of strict legal action against offenders and called for strengthening training programmes, recruitment, and resolution of operational issues faced by Excise personnel across zones.
Chief Secretary R.S. Gopalan discussed various administrative reforms undertaken by the department and urged officials and staff to remain prepared to address emerging challenges effectively.
Excise Commissioner P. Anvesha Reddy presented a detailed overview of enforcement activities and revenue collection across districts through a PowerPoint presentation.
The discussions also focused on strengthening inter-departmental coordination, improving evidence collection against offenders, ensuring proper documentation for court proceedings, curbing illegal cannabis cultivation, and promoting alternative livelihood opportunities for local communities in affected areas.
Senior officials including MD of OSBC Ltd. Deben Kumar Pradhan, Additional Secretaries Archana Das Pattnaik and Debashish Pattnaik, Additional Commissioner Rudra Narayan Mohanty, along with Excise Superintendents from all districts, attended the conference.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
