Odisha to roll out new excise policy, awareness campaign this month; CM to review framework today

Odisha is set to enforce a new excise policy within this month, with Law and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan scheduled to brief Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on the proposed framework.

According to sources, the Excise Department has compiled a detailed report after studying excise systems in two other states, which will be presented before the Chief Minister today. Based on the findings, the Odisha government will finalise its decision, and the new policy is expected to be implemented ahead of the Dussehra festivities.

Focus On Enforcement And Illegal Trade

Reports added that the new framework will put strong emphasis on tackling the illegal liquor and narcotics trade across the state.

Minister Harichandan confirmed that enforcement drives have already been intensified, with directives issued to police and excise officials to clamp down on offenders. The government has made it clear that stricter legal action will follow under the new regime, aimed at protecting farmers, labourers, and youth from the fallout of substance abuse.

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Awareness Campaign From Gandhi Jayanti

Alongside enforcement, the government will also focus on public awareness. A state-wide campaign will be launched on October 2, Gandhi Jayanti, to spread awareness about the dangers of alcohol and substance abuse.

The campaign will continue for a month, covering both urban and rural areas, with special focus on youth outreach.

Crackdown Near Educational Institutions

The move builds on an earlier directive issued in August this year, when the CM ordered law enforcement agencies to go beyond arresting small-time peddlers and instead target the masterminds behind the narcotics trade.

The high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary had specifically raised concerns about drug trafficking around schools, colleges, and hostels. Excise and police officials were instructed to cut off supply chains at their roots and maintain a safe environment for students. Sources indicated that the upcoming excise policy will incorporate stronger measures to address these concerns.

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Implementation Timeline Ahead Of Festivals

Final discussions between the Excise Department and the Chief Minister are expected to be completed within the next two days.

Officials said the state aims to complete all formalities before the festive season, ensuring that the new excise framework takes effect within September.