With poppy season on, PCCF alerts DFOs
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 11 2025:
Pointing out that the season for sowing of poppy seeds and cultivation of poppy (September-April) is approaching, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF) Anurag Bajpai has directed all territorial DFOs to be on the vigil in their respective jurisdictions on such possible cultivation of poppy by anti-social elements which not only harm the ecology of the area but also destroy the health of the society.
Such activity on forest lands also violates the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985, Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam 1980 and Indian Forest Act 1927, said an order issued by the PCCF.
The PCCF has also directed all territorial DFOs to sensitize their staff to remain vigilant on such activities during patrolling and also use drone technology in coordination with local police.
All poppy cultivation areas should be destroyed immediately as per the standard operating procedures with the help of respective district administrations, police, NAB and paramilitary forces, the order said.




