Bhubaneswar, 18 August (H.S.): The Odisha Government’s Information & Public Relations Department organised a mass anti-drug pledge on Tuesday as part of efforts to promote a drug-free society and raise public awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse.

The pledge-taking ceremony was attended by department Director Anuj Kumar Das Patnaik, Additional Secretary Ashok Kumar Beheria, Joint Director Sucheta Priyadarshini and Deputy Director Ashwini Kumar Bhoi, along with other departmental officers and employees.

During the programme, the participants pledged to stay away from intoxicating substances and committed themselves to creating awareness among their family members, friends and others in society about the adverse effects of drug abuse.

The mass anti-drug pledge campaign is being conducted across Odisha on Tuesday, with a target of involving at least 10 per cent of the state’s population.

As part of the campaign, pledge-taking programmes are being organised with the participation of schools, colleges, government offices, panchayats and various social organisations. The initiative aims to strengthen public awareness against substance abuse and encourage people to contribute towards building a healthier and drug-free society.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda