Assam Cracks Down: 73 Excise Officers Undergo Intensive Training to End Illicit Liquor Trade
The Assam government has launched a 30-day intensive training for 73 excise officers to dismantle illegal liquor networks and protect public health.
In a decisive move to dismantle illegal alcohol networks and protect the well-being of its citizens, the Assam government has launched a high-intensity 30-day residential training programme for 73 of its enforcement officers. This strategic initiative is designed to sharpen the state's fight against the Assam illicit liquor fight by transforming the Excise Department into a more disciplined and efficient force.
Inauguration at Lachit Borphukan Police Academy
The month-long rigorous course was officially kicked off at the prestigious Lachit Borphukan Police Academy in Dergaon. The ceremony was inaugurated by Virendra Mittal, a senior IAS officer and the Commissioner and Secretary of the Excise Department.
During his address to the trainees, Mittal highlighted that field operations require more than just authority; they demand absolute discipline, technical precision, and a deep-rooted commitment to public service. He urged the officers to embody these values to effectively tackle the challenges of enforcement.
A Government Resolve to Eradicate Illegal Trade
The state's determination is backed by the highest levels of leadership. Assam Excise Minister Atul Bora, via a social media message, affirmed that the government—under the guidance of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma—is fully resolved to wipe out the illegal liquor trade from the state.
Minister Bora pointed out that illicit alcohol is not merely a legal violation but a direct hazard to community safety and public health. He described this specialized training as a "crucial turning point" that will lead to significantly tighter enforcement across Assam.
What the Training Entails
The curriculum for the 30-day residential programme is intensive and multifaceted, focusing on both physical and intellectual readiness. The training is structured to enhance:
- Physical Endurance: Ensuring officers are fit for demanding field operations.
- Modern Investigation Methods: Utilizing contemporary techniques to track illegal syndicates.
- Raid Management: Streamlining the process of conducting raids to ensure they are effective and orderly.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring all enforcement actions are within the bounds of the law to avoid procedural lapses.
Boosting Operational Readiness
Senior Excise Officer Sailendra Pandey emphasized that hosting the programme at the Lachit Borphukan Police Academy would drastically boost the operational readiness of the force. He noted that by equipping officers with advanced technological tools and legal knowledge, the department will be better positioned to take strict action against tax evasion and organized liquor syndicates.
Key Officials in Attendance
The inauguration saw the presence of several high-ranking administrative and police figures, underscoring the inter-departmental importance of the mission. Notable attendees included:
- Neera Daulagupu, Secretary of the Excise Department
- Rashmi Baruah Gogoi, Joint Secretary
- Mrinal Deka, Principal of the Lachit Borphukan Police Academy
- Chitren Gogoi, Commandant of the 11th Assam Battalion Border Police