Bhubaneswar, July 3 (UDN): In a significant move to safeguard students from substance abuse, the Odisha Higher Education Department has launched a statewide drive to transform all government and government-aided private colleges into drug-free zones.

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The department has directed principals of all colleges to ensure that no liquor outlets, tobacco shops, or establishments dealing in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, or other intoxicants operate within a 500-metre radius of their campuses.

College authorities have been asked to conduct a physical verification of the surrounding area and submit a detailed compliance report through the Higher Education Information Management System (HIMS) portal by July 15.

The initiative has been undertaken in accordance with the guidelines of the National Narcotics Coordination (NCORD) mechanism, which seeks to strengthen measures against drug abuse and trafficking, particularly in educational institutions.

As part of the verification exercise, colleges must report whether any liquor shop, tobacco outlet or location associated with the sale or consumption of illegal drugs exists within the prescribed distance. Institutions are also required to identify and provide the names and locations of such establishments, if found, for further action by the authorities.

To ensure effective implementation, the Higher Education Department has instructed all Regional Directors of Higher Education to monitor compliance and oversee the submission of reports by colleges under their jurisdiction.

Officials said the initiative is aimed at creating a safe, healthy and addiction-free academic environment while preventing the easy availability of tobacco, alcohol and narcotic substances near educational institutions. The move is expected to strengthen campus safety and support ongoing efforts to protect students from the risks of substance abuse.