Assam Rifles reaffirms stand against poppy cultivation for drug-free Manipur
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 14 2024: As 2024 concludes, Assam Rifles has reaffirmed its dedication to combating narcotrade and ensuring stability in Manipur for a "Drug-Free Manipur".

A press release issued by IGAR (S) has highlighted the efforts of the Assam Rifles in their fight against poppy cultivation along the Indo-Myanmar border.

In 2024, Assam Rifles successfully identified and destroyed 354 acres of illicit poppy cultivation, primarily in the districts of Ukhrul, Churachandpur, and Chandel under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South).

In 2020, the force identified a staggering 8057 acres of poppy fields, of which 1695 acres were destroyed.

In 2021, the force identified 5610 acres and destroyed 1976 acres.

Intensifying its operations in 2022, it destroyed 715 acres, including previously undiscovered patches.

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

By 2024, the area of identified poppy fields reportedly declined significantly, reflecting the success of the State and Central Government's and Security Forces' multi-pronged strategy.

The IGAR (S) statement maintained that given the ongoing crisis in Manipur, no single agency can effectively address this challenge alone.

Collaborative operations have proven essential, with Assam Rifles actively coordinating with State and Central agencies, including the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Manipur Police and other CAPFs deployed in the area.

Assam Rifles also incorporated advanced technology, such as drone surveillance in identifying poppy fields in inaccessible terrains.

These high-tech measures are complemented by actionable intelligence from local communities and inputs from civil society organizations (CSOs).

Additionally the force has also maintained a robust ground presence through Area Domination Patrols in traditional cultivation zones.

This persistent vigilance has acted as a deterrent to the resurgence of illegal farming practices, added IGAR (S).

Beyond destruction campaigns, Assam Rifles has also prioritized addressing the socio-economic factors driving poppy cultivation.

Under its "Drug-Free Manipur" initiative, Assam Rifles has conducted extensive awareness drives to educate communities about the perils of drug addiction and the risks associated with illegal farming.

Assam Rifles' zero-tolerance policy against narcotics-related activities has also led to legal actions against defaulters, including cultivators and financiers.

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