Bhubaneswar, 19 August (H.S.): A 40-day training programme for Excise Constables was inaugurated on Wednesday by the Odisha Excise Department with the objective of strengthening the professional competence, legal knowledge, discipline and enforcement capabilities of its personnel.

Inaugurating the programme, Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said the illegal trade in liquor and narcotic substances poses a serious challenge to society and can lead to the loss of lives and livelihoods.

He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi have accorded high priority to the vision of a drug-free India. The Excise Department, he added, has a critical responsibility in preventing the illegal trade and ensuring effective enforcement of laws relating to liquor and narcotic substances.

The minister highlighted the enforcement measures undertaken by the department over the past two years, including regular raids and intensified action against illicit activities. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to further strengthening enforcement efforts to make Odisha free from illegal narcotics and illicit liquor.

Harichandan stressed that training is an integral part of the professional journey of every government employee and should not be treated as a mere formality. It provides personnel with an opportunity to enhance their professional competence, knowledge, discipline, integrity and ethical conduct, he said.

He urged the trainees to participate actively in the programme, acquire the necessary legal and operational skills, and apply their knowledge effectively while discharging their duties.

Excise Commissioner P. Anvesha Reddy outlined the structure and objectives of the training programme. She emphasised that the programme would strengthen the operational and legal capabilities of Excise personnel and enable them to perform their responsibilities more effectively.

A total of 446 Excise Constables will undergo the 40-day training programme. The first phase will cover 150 constables.

The training curriculum will cover key areas including Excise laws and rules, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and Government Servants’ Conduct Rules.

The programme is aimed at equipping Excise personnel with the le

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda