Odisha Police DG sets target to curb illegal Ganja cultivation by March 31

In a decisive move against illegal Ganja (cannabis) cultivation, Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania instructed the district Superintendents of Police (SPs) on Friday to identify and take stern actions against those involved in these activities.

The DGP directed the SPs to completely curb illegal Ganja cultivation by March 31.

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In a virtual review meeting held today in Bhubaneswar, DGP Khurania underscored the importance of addressing this issue at the grassroots level. This comprehensive initiative, which commenced on November 1 last year, is expected to run through to March 31.

The police force in Odisha has intensified efforts to combat illegal cannabis cultivation across the State. So far, the campaign has resulted in the registration of over 591 cases in various police stations and the destruction of illegal cannabis plantations spanning more than 25,000 acres, a press release issued in this regard mentioned.

As part of the ongoing operation, by the end of January, 213 cases had been registered with over 8,269 acres of the crops being destroyed. DGP Khurania remarked that these activities represent substantial progress for law enforcement, significantly curtailing cannabis production across the State, the official communiqué expressed.

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The campaign has been implemented in Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput, Boudh, Kandhamal, Gajapati, Ganjam, and Nabarangpur.

Advanced technology, including drones and satellite imagery, is being utilised to locate and eradicate vast expanses of illegal cultivation.

The DGP highlighted the importance of creating awareness and issuing stern warnings to those involved in such activities about the severe legal consequences they face.