Drug-free Manipur - A resolution of Assam Rifles
Source: Chronicle News Service / PRO IGAR(S)

Imphal, December 14 2024: In the year 2024, Assam Rifles, operating under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South), continued its determined fight against the menace of poppy cultivation along the Indo-Myanmar border.

Through meticulously planned joint operations, the force successfully identified and destroyed 354 acres of illicit poppy cultivation, primarily in the districts of Ukhrul, Churachandpur, and Chandel.

By eliminating poppy fields and striking at the roots of narco-trade, Assam Rifles has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring stability and security in Manipur and beyond.

The battle against poppy cultivation has been a consistent priority for Assam Rifles, as reflected in its sustained efforts over the years.

In 2020, the force identified a staggering 8,057 acres of poppy fields, of which 1,695 acres were destroyed.

This trend of rigorous action continued in subsequent years, with 5,610 acres identified and 1,976 acres destroyed in 2021.The force intensified its operations in 2022, identifying 494 acres and destroying 715 acres, including previously undiscovered patches.

In 2023, 1,735 acres were identified, and 1,488 acres were eradicated.

By 2024, the area of identified poppy fields had declined significantly, reflecting the success of the state and Central government's and security forces' multi-pronged strategy.

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.

The NCB, as the nodal agency for drug enforcement under the Ministry of Home Affairs, ensured synergy among all stakeholders during operations, especially during the opium harvesting seasons.

Joint operations have focused on curbing cultivation, disrupting supply chains, and dismantling the networks sustaining the illicit drug trade.

The security cover provided by the force has ensured the safe execution of destruction operations in vulnerable and conflict-prone areas.

Assam Rifles deftly 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 organisations (CSOs).

The leveraging of technology and community support has significantly enhanced the effectiveness of operations, ensuring a swift and targeted approach.

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.

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

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

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

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

These measures, combined with efforts to restrict cross-border narcotics trafficking, have disrupted the infrastructure supporting poppy cultivation.

As 2024 concludes, Assam Rifles reaffirms its dedication to combating narco-trade and ensuring stability in the region.

Through unwavering resolve and continued collaboration with state and central agencies, the force remains committed to creating a safer, prosperous, and drug-free future for Manipur and its people.

Comment