Central and state security forces in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district have successfully eradicated over 306 acres of illegal poppy cultivation within six days, preventing the production of opium worth millions of rupees. The joint operations, conducted between January 12 and January 17 by various security agencies including the Narcotics Control Bureau and the state Forest Department, targeted illicit poppy fields in different locations of the district. The coordinated efforts led to the destruction of not only the poppy fields but also 43 temporary huts used by the cultivators.
Senior officials reported that the joint teams, consisting of the Assam Rifles, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Manipur Police, seized and destroyed several spray pumps, pipes, salts, and pesticides found at the sites. The destroyed poppy fields had the capacity to yield more than 2,080 kg of opium, with a significant value in the illegal market. Previous operations in November and December last year also resulted in the destruction of over 1,000 acres of illegal poppy cultivation across Manipur’s mountainous districts.
The illegal cultivation was mainly concentrated in six hill districts, including Kangpokpi, Ukhrul, Tamenglong, Chandel, Tengnoupal, and Senapati. The crackdown on poppy fields during the past two months aimed to prevent the production of nearly 9,000 kg of opium, valued at hundreds of crores of rupees. The intensive operations against illicit poppy cultivation were carried out under challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions, emphasizing the commitment of security forces to combat narcotics production and disrupt financial networks supporting insurgency and anti-national activities.
As part of the Manipur government’s ‘War Against Drugs’, security forces have been actively destroying illegal poppy cultivation on government and forest lands over the years. In 2020, authorities identified 8,057 acres of poppy fields in the state, of which 1,695 acres were eliminated. The efforts have continued in subsequent years, leading to a significant decline in identified poppy cultivation areas by 2024 and 2025, showcasing the success of the state and Central governments’ comprehensive strategy.
State politicians and officials have highlighted the impact of the ongoing ethnic crisis and drug menace on Manipur’s situation. Assam Rifles maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards narcotics-related activities, taking legal action against cultivators, facilitators, and financiers. The force remains resolute in its mission to eradicate poppy cultivation along the India-Myanmar border, ensuring long-term stability and security in Manipur and neighboring regions. Combatting illegal poppy cultivation has been a consistent priority for Assam Rifles, evident in its sustained operations over the years.
