‘Mayangilla Keralam’: State to combat narcotics via India’s first Digital Vigilance Portal

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government is set to significantly intensify its anti-narcotics campaign through a comprehensive, long-term project titled 'Mayangilla Keralam', Excise Minister M. Liju announced in a press conference.

As the flagship component of this campaign, a dedicated public vigilance web portal and mobile application will become fully operational on July 1. The digital platform will allow the public to securely report information regarding drug trafficking and illicit substance sales. Minister Liju highlighted that this platform will be India’s first digital initiative designed to comprehensively coordinate anti-drug operations. The portal aims to bring together various sectors of society to expand grassroots awareness and preventive measures.

Shifting focus toward a holistic approach, the government intends to balance strict law enforcement with robust awareness and rehabilitation strategies. To facilitate recovery and support, specialised de-addiction centres will be set up across all taluks in the state.

Detailing ongoing enforcement measures, the Minister stated that targeted crackdowns are currently underway under codenames like 'Toofan' and 'Thunder'. Over 14,700 cases have already been registered under the 'Operation Thunder' initiative alone.

However, the Minister also candidly addressed the structural and logistical constraints currently hindering the Excise Department. Acknowledging that the department has lagged in modernisation, he pointed out critical shortages in advanced equipment, modern weaponry, and operational vehicles, adding that the physical infrastructure of several existing excise offices is in poor condition.

To rectify these deficiencies, the government will soon roll out 'Model Excise Offices' equipped with better facilities. Furthermore, a State Narcotic Control Bureau will be formed, integrating existing personnel into a more structured, comprehensive action plan to combat drug syndicates effectively.

In addition to the narcotics crackdown, the department will launch 'Operation Shudhi' to curb the manufacture and sale of adulterated toddy across the state.

Excise Commissioner Sriram Sambasiva Rao also attended the press conference.