Bhubaneswar: Chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday expressed concern over the growing menace of substance abuse, saying it is destroying families and fuelling criminal activities, and reaffirmed his govt’s zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking.Addressing ‘Jiban Jindabad 2.0’, an awareness programme organised by commissionerate police to encourage youths to stay away from drugs, Majhi said the govt is committed to meeting the Centre’s target of eliminating drug trade from the country by the end of 2029.“Drug addiction is leading to several violent crimes and incidents of domestic violence. Around 2.8 lakh people die every year in the country due to alcohol addiction, while Odisha ranks second in the number of deaths caused by drunk driving. Under our three-year excise policy, we have already decided not to allow any new liquor shops in the state,” said Majhi.Under the new excise policy, the govt has introduced a 0.5% ‘de-addiction cess’ on excise duty. Proceeds will be used to establish and strengthen model de-addiction centres across Odisha. “Drug law enforcement agencies have been directed to intensify their crackdown on ganja, brown sugar, illicit liquor and all other forms of drugs,” said Majhi, while launching a website to promote the campaign for a drug-free Odisha.The chief minister also advised parents to closely monitor changes in children’s behaviour and treat any unusual changes as a ‘red flag’. He urged youths to spend their money on healthier alternatives, such as protein supplements and energy drinks, rather than harmful substances. “Say no to drugs and yes to life. Life is beautiful; don’t destroy it,” Majhi said.