Odisha Seizes 97.8 kg Brown Sugar Since 2022: Excise Minister

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Excise Department has seized a total of 97,804 grams of brown sugar and arrested 1,234 people over the past four years, Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan informed the State Assembly on Saturday.

In a written reply to a question from Salipur MLA Prasanta Behera, the Minister provided a year-wise breakdown of the seizures and arrests. In 2022–23, 28,593 grams of brown sugar were seized and 278 people were arrested. During 2023–24, 21,190 grams were seized and 331 people were taken into custody. The following year, 2024–25, saw 19,869 grams seized and 274 arrests. For the current year, 2025–26 (up to 12 February), 28,152 grams have already been seized, with 351 people arrested.

“The Excise Department is conducting regular raids across the state to completely curb the sale of brown sugar. The NDPS Act, 1985, is being invoked against offenders, and strict action is being taken accordingly,” the Minister said.

The data reflects the department’s intensified efforts to combat the illegal drug trade and ensure strict enforcement against violators across Odisha.