Manipur: Assam Rifles Eliminates 354 Acres of Unlawful Poppy Farming in 2024

Imphal, Dec 14 (NationPress) The Assam Rifles has successfully eradicated 354 acres of unlawful poppy farming this year, primarily across the districts of Ukhrul, Churachandpur, and Chandel.

A Defence spokesperson stated that through precisely coordinated joint operations, the force effectively identified and eliminated these illegal poppy fields, reinforcing their commitment to combat the drug cultivation menace along the India-Myanmar border.

By demolishing these poppy fields, the Assam Rifles has demonstrated its dedication to enhancing stability and security in Manipur and the surrounding regions.

The spokesperson noted that tackling poppy farming has consistently been a key focus for the paramilitary force, as evidenced by their ongoing efforts over the years.

In 2020, the force identified a remarkable 8057 acres of poppy fields, destroying 1695 acres of them. This rigorous approach continued in subsequent years, with 5610 acres identified and 1976 acres destroyed in 2021.

The Assam Rifles ramped up its operations in 2022, identifying 494 acres and destroying 715 acres, including previously hidden areas.

In 2023, they identified 1735 acres and eradicated 1488 acres.

By 2024, the identified poppy farming areas have significantly decreased, showcasing the effectiveness of the multi-faceted strategy implemented by both state and central authorities alongside security forces, the spokesperson highlighted.

Given the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur, the spokesperson emphasized that no single agency could tackle this issue independently. Collaborative efforts have proven vital, with the Assam Rifles actively working alongside state and central organizations, including the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Manipur Police, and other Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) in the region.

The NCB, as the primary agency for drug enforcement under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has ensured coordination among all involved parties during operations, especially during the opium harvesting periods. Joint operations have aimed at curbing cultivation, disrupting supply chains, and dismantling the networks that support the illegal drug trade.

The security provided by the Assam Rifles has ensured the safe execution of destruction operations in vulnerable and conflict-affected areas.

Utilizing advanced technology, such as drone surveillance, has enabled the identification of poppy fields in hard-to-reach locations.

An official statement indicated that these high-tech strategies are complemented by actionable intelligence from local communities and support from civil society organizations (CSOs).

The integration of technology and community support has greatly increased the efficiency of operations, ensuring a rapid and targeted approach.

Furthermore, the force has maintained a strong presence through Area Domination Patrols in traditional cultivation zones, acting as a deterrent against the resurgence of illegal farming practices.

Apart from destruction campaigns, the Assam Rifles has also focused on addressing the socio-economic issues that drive poppy cultivation.

Under the 'Drug-Free Manipur' initiative, the force has carried out extensive awareness campaigns to inform communities about the dangers of drug addiction and the hazards linked to illegal farming.

Through regular interactions with villagers and local leaders, the force has actively promoted sustainable livelihood alternatives, encouraging a transition towards legitimate and long-term economic activities.

The Assam Rifles’ zero-tolerance stance on narcotics-related offenses has resulted in legal actions against offenders, including cultivators and financiers. These measures, combined with strategies to curtail cross-border narcotics trafficking, have disrupted the infrastructure supporting poppy farming.