Imphal East SP highlights need to break off financial support system of poppy cultivators
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 01 2023:
Imphal East SP Ksh Shivakanta called for the support of local clubs in preventing poppy cultivation thereby striving for an end of those who are investing in such illegal and harmful activities.
The Imphal East SP made the above appeal while speaking at an 'Awareness campaign on War on Drugs and Deforestation' held today at Pukhao Laipham Community Hall in Imphal East district.
The awareness campaign was jointly organised by the Peace and Development Coordinating Committee (PDCC) and Village Development Sporting Club, Pukhao Laipham.
Speaking at the occasion, he further highlighted that the poppy cultivators mainly in the hilly region of the State are not worried about the expenses since there are many who are putting in huge sums of money in this illegal act.
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Therefore it is of utmost importance to break off the financial support system of poppy cultivators to prevent poppy cultivation in the State, he added.
He maintained that in this context, the local clubs have a pivotal role to play to effectively tackle the issue.
Expressing contentment on the increasing participation from the public and the continued support of the 'War on Drugs' campaign, the Imphal East SP stated that Police are able to destroy poppy cultivation in far off areas now where they had restricted entry before owing to various reasons.
He also appealed to all to prevent poppy cultivation in strategic areas.
Speaking at the occasion, DFO, Central Forest Division RK Amarjit informed that out of the 36 Biodiversity Hotspot of the world, four are in India and Manipur is situated in the region of Indo Himalayan and Indo Myanmar Biodiversity Hotspot.
He maintained that in order to preserve these biodiversity hotspots, it is essential to preserve and protect the reserved forests and protected forests of the State.
In view of the above, the Forest Department needs the support and cooperation of the public to check the activities which pose a threat to these forests.
Therefore to preserve the forest area in Pukhao and surrounding region and to bring in eco-development, measures are underway to revive the Forest Beat Office and to form a Joint Forest Management Committee to carry out relevant activities, the DFO informed.
As a part of the programme, a poster campaign against drugs and deforestation was launched.
Deputy Director, Directorate of Environment and Climate Change T Brajakumar also attended the programme.