Odisha to create drug‑free zones within 500 m of all schools, colleges and universities

The state government, through the Education Department, said it will demarcate drug‑free zones with a 500‑metre radius around each school, college and university.\nThe policy is intended to curb substance abuse among students by prohibiting the sale and consumption of narcotics in the designated perimeter, with enforcement delegated to police and local authorities.\nAuthorities will install clear signage and any violation will be dealt with under existing narcotics legislation, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.\nImplementation will begin in phases, starting with districts that have reported higher incidences of drug use, and the scheme will be reviewed after a year to assess its impact.