Assam Rifles Intensifies Efforts Against Illegal Poppy Cultivation in Manipur: 6,228 Acres Destroyed Over 5 Years

Imphal, Dec 15 (NationPress) The Assam Rifles has uncovered an astonishing 16,250 acres of illegal poppy fields across several districts in Manipur within the last five years, leading to the destruction of 6,228 acres, as announced by officials on Sunday.

The defence spokesman highlighted that combating illegal activities and addressing drug-related issues have been fundamental priorities for the Assam Rifles, evident in their ongoing efforts.

In 2020 alone, the paramilitary force detected an incredible 8,057 acres of unlawful poppy fields in various districts, resulting in the destruction of 1,695 acres.

Continuing their aggressive campaign, a total of 5,610 acres of illegal poppy fields were identified in 2021, with 1,976 acres being eradicated. The following year (2022), the force intensified its operations, identifying an additional 494 acres and destroying 715 acres, which included previously unknown patches.

In 2023, efforts led to the identification of 1,735 acres of illegal poppy cultivation, with 1,488 acres eradicated. This year, 354 acres of illicit poppy cultivation have been destroyed, predominantly in the districts of Ukhrul, Churachandpur, and Chandel.

The spokesman stated that by 2024, the identified area of poppy fields has significantly decreased, showcasing the efficacy of state and Central government initiatives, along with the security forces' comprehensive strategy against illegal poppy farming.

The Assam Rifles has been actively identifying and eliminating illegal poppy cultivation in hilly and forested areas in collaboration with state and central agencies, including the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Manipur Police, and other Central Armed Police Forces stationed in the region.

The NCB, as the principal agency for drug enforcement under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has ensured cohesive efforts among all parties involved during operations, especially during opium harvesting seasons.

Joint operations among various forces have concentrated on curtailing cultivation, disrupting supply chains, and dismantling the networks supporting the illegal drug trade.

Apart from destruction efforts, the Assam Rifles has also focused on tackling the socio-economic factors that promote poppy cultivation, as stated by the spokesman.

Under its 'Drug-Free Manipur' initiative, the Assam Rifles has executed extensive awareness campaigns to inform communities about the dangers of drug addiction and the hazards of illegal farming.

Through regular engagement with villagers and local leaders, the force has actively advocated for sustainable livelihood options, fostering a transition to legitimate and enduring economic activities.

Meanwhile, a government report indicates that various law enforcement agencies, including the Manipur Police, have eradicated 19,135.60 acres of illegal poppy cultivation across the state’s twelve districts from 2017 to 2024.

The report, compiled by the Manipur Remote Sensing Applications Centre (MARSAC), shows that in the mountainous Kangpokpi district, the highest area of 4,454.4 acres of illegal poppy cultivation was destroyed in the last seven years (2017-2024), followed by 3,348 acres in Ukhrul and 2,713.8 acres in Churachandpur.

MARSAC is an autonomous government body under the Planning Department of the Manipur government.

The report highlights that deforestation due to large-scale poppy cultivation has led to several detrimental effects on the ecosystem, including soil erosion, a decline in biodiversity, and alterations in the local climate.

The Manipur government has repeatedly stated that the ongoing ethnic unrest in Manipur (which began in May of last year) is linked to illegal immigrants from Myanmar, who have begun cultivating illicit poppies after settling unlawfully in the state.