Paralakhemundi: As part of the ongoing drive towards a “Cannabis-Free Gajapati” and “Nasha Mukt Odisha,” a special awareness and community mobilisation programme was organised on Monday at the Adava Gram Panchayat Office under the leadership and guidance of the Superintendent of Police, Gajapati.
The programme witnessed active participation of Sarpanches, Ward Members, community leaders and members of the public from Ganja-affected and vulnerable areas under Adava Police Station. The participants were sensitised about the serious legal consequences of illegal cannabis cultivation, its harmful impact on youth and society, and the need for collective community action to eradicate the menace.
The participants unanimously resolved not to allow illegal cannabis cultivation in their respective villages and areas. They pledged to create awareness among villagers, discourage people from engaging in such illegal activities and extend full cooperation to the Police and other government agencies in identifying and preventing cannabis cultivation.
The participants also assured that they would play an active role in motivating local communities towards lawful and sustainable livelihoods and in protecting the younger generation from drug abuse and involvement in the illegal narcotics trade.
The programme highlighted that the fight against illegal cannabis cultivation cannot be achieved by enforcement alone and requires the active participation of Panchayati Raj representatives, community leaders and the general public.
Gajapati Police appealed to all citizens to join hands in building a drug-free society and making Adava and the entire Gajapati district free from illegal cannabis cultivation.