The Odisha government is examining a proposal to create drug-free zones within 500 metres of schools, colleges, universities and technical institutions, in an effort to strengthen protection for students and educational campuses.
Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Deoranjan Kumar Singh reportedly chaired a high-level review of the proposed framework. Discussions covered steps such as inspections, awareness programmes, counselling and monitoring compliance around educational institutions.
The proposed approach would place greater attention on the areas surrounding campuses, rather than limiting prevention efforts to activities inside school and college premises. It also points to a possible need for coordination among education authorities, enforcement agencies and local administrations.
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For students and parents, the proposal raises an important question about how educational neighbourhoods can be made safer while ensuring that awareness and support remain part of the response.
The initiative is still at the planning stage. Details of implementation, enforcement and any formal notification have not yet been established.