PTI, IMPHAL, SEP 11, 2025 : The Manipur government has asked forest officials to remain vigilant to prevent poppy cultivation in the state, according to an official notification.
The directive comes ahead of the poppy seed sowing and cultivation season (September–April).
“As the season (September–April) for poppy seed sowing and cultivation is approaching, all territorial DFOs are directed to keep a vigil in their respective jurisdictions on such possible cultivation by anti-social elements which not only harm the ecology of the area but also destroy the health of society,” the order issued by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Anurag Bajpai, on September 8 stated.
The notification emphasized that such activity on forest lands violates multiple laws, including the NDPS Act, 1985; Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980; and the Indian Forest Act, 1927.
The PCCF directed all divisional forest officers (DFOs) to instruct their staff to remain alert during patrolling operations. He also recommended the use of drone technology in coordination with local police.
“All such poppy cultivation areas shall be destroyed immediately as per standard operating procedures with the help of district administration, police, NAB (Narcotics and Affairs of Borders), and paramilitary forces,” the order added.
About the Author
