Odisha DGP Orders Complete Eradication of Cannabis Cultivation

Bhubaneswar, Feb 7 (UNI): Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania has ordered a complete crackdown on cannabis cultivation across the state. Chairing a virtual review meeting on the special police campaign against illegal marijuana farming, Khurania directed all District Superintendents of Police (SPs) to identify and take strict action against cannabis mafias.

The DGP emphasized that the ongoing campaign, which started on November 1 last year, will continue until March 31. Senior officers have been instructed to ensure the complete eradication of cannabis cultivation during this period.

Since the launch of the drive, Odisha police have registered 591 cases across various police stations, leading to the destruction of over 25,000 acres of illegal cannabis cultivation. In January alone, 213 cases were recorded, and more than 8,269 acres of marijuana fields were destroyed.

The DGP highlighted that in 2024, authorities registered 350 cases and eliminated over 15,000 acres of cannabis farms. In 2023, 428 cases were registered, leading to the destruction of 10,541 acres, while in 2022, a total of 570 cases resulted in the eradication of 24,395 acres of illegal cultivation.

Currently, a special drive is underway in eight districts known for widespread illegal cannabis farming—Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput, Boudh, Kandhamal, Gajapati, Ganjam, and Nabarangpur. Authorities are utilizing drones and satellite technology to identify and destroy cannabis fields. Additionally, strict warnings are being issued to those involved in illegal cultivation, with the DGP cautioning that legal action will be taken against violators.

The police campaign marks a significant step in combating illegal cannabis production in Odisha, reinforcing the government’s commitment to tackling narcotics-related crimes in the state.