Imphal, Nov 17 (NationPress) In a significant anti-narcotics initiative, Central and state security forces have successfully eradicated over 486 acres of unlawful poppy farming across the mountainous regions of Manipur in just five days. This operation has thwarted a major attempt to produce opium valued at several crores, as stated by officials on Monday.

Through coordinated efforts, the Assam Rifles, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Manipur Police have executed a series of joint operations from November 11 to 15, targeting illegal poppy cultivation in three key districts: Kangpokpi, Ukhrul, and Senapati.

A high-ranking police official indicated that the destroyed poppy fields had the potential to yield over 3,304 kg of opium, representing a significant financial loss. During these operations, security personnel also dismantled approximately 60 huts associated with the illegal cultivation.

Moreover, a large quantity of materials, including sacks of salt, fertilizers, and herbicides, were also confiscated and destroyed. The official pledged that efforts against illegal poppy farming in Manipur would persist.

A Defence Spokesman underscored the challenging conditions under which the operations were conducted, emphasizing the commitment of the Assam Rifles and allied forces to combat illicit drug cultivation and disrupt financial networks that support insurgency and other anti-national activities.

The successful completion of this mission reinforces the Assam Rifles' unwavering dedication to promoting a drug-free Northeast, contributing to long-term peace, stability, and socio-economic advancement in the area, as noted in an Assam Rifles statement.

A senior state government official remarked that as part of the government’s 'War against drugs,' various security forces have previously eradicated numerous acres of illegal poppy farming on government and forest lands.

In 2020, authorities identified an astonishing 8,057 acres of poppy fields, with 1,695 acres destroyed. This trend of stringent action has continued in the following years.

The Assam Rifles and other security entities have intensified efforts to eliminate extensive illegal poppy cultivation. By 2024 and 2025, the identified areas for poppy farming had significantly reduced, indicating the success of the comprehensive strategies employed by state and Central governments.

According to state politicians and officials, the ongoing ethnic strife in Manipur, combined with the escalating drug problem, significantly contributes to the current turmoil.

The Assam Rifles' stringent stance against narcotics-related activities has resulted in legal actions against offenders, including both cultivators and financiers, as per a Defence Spokesman.

He further emphasized that the Assam Rifles remain steadfast in their mission to combat poppy cultivation along the India-Myanmar border.

By dismantling poppy fields and targeting the foundations of the narcotics trade, the Assam Rifles have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring stability and security in Manipur and beyond.

As stated by the defence official, the fight against poppy farming continues to be a top priority for the paramilitary force, as evidenced by their ongoing efforts over the years.