Major Anti-Drug Operation in Manipur Dismantles Illegal Poppy Farms

In a significant anti-narcotics operation, security forces in Manipur have destroyed over 306 acres of illegal poppy cultivation in Kangpokpi district. This crackdown, part of a broader initiative against drug production, highlights the ongoing commitment of the Assam Rifles and other agencies to combat narcotics. The operation, which took place between January 12 and 17, also involved the destruction of temporary shelters used by cultivators and the seizure of various farming equipment. Previous efforts have seen the eradication of more than 1,000 acres of poppy fields, showcasing the effectiveness of the state's multi-faceted strategy against drug cultivation. The authorities remain determined to eliminate poppy farming along the India-Myanmar border, ensuring long-term stability in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 18, 2026, 15:55 IST

Significant Crackdown on Poppy Cultivation

Imphal, Jan 18: In a significant anti-drug initiative, security forces from both central and state levels have eradicated over 306 acres of illicit poppy farms in the mountainous region of Kangpokpi district, Manipur, within a span of six days.

The operations, conducted from January 12 to January 17, involved collaboration between the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), the state Forest Department, and various security forces.

A senior police official reported that the joint teams, which included personnel from the Assam Rifles, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Manipur Police, also dismantled 43 temporary shelters used by poppy farmers.

Numerous spray pumps, pipes, salts, and pesticides discovered at the sites were confiscated and destroyed.

The official noted that the eradicated poppy fields could have produced over 2,080 kg of opium, with a market value running into several crores of rupees.

In previous operations during November and December of the last year, the Army, Assam Rifles, CRPF, Border Security Force (BSF), NCB, and Manipur Police had already eliminated more than 1,000 acres of illegal poppy cultivation across the state's hilly regions.

The illegal farming was mainly concentrated in six hill districts: Kangpokpi, Ukhrul, Tamenglong, Chandel, Tengnoupal, and Senapati.

According to the police, the destruction of over 1,000 acres of poppy fields in the last two months could prevent the production of nearly 9,000 kg of opium, valued at several hundred crores of rupees.

A Defence spokesperson stated that these extensive operations against illegal poppy farming were executed under challenging terrain and adverse weather, showcasing the commitment of the Assam Rifles and other security forces to combat narcotics production.

A senior official from the state government mentioned that as part of the ongoing 'war against drugs' in Manipur, security forces and enforcement agencies have consistently destroyed hundreds of acres of illegal poppy farms, primarily on government and forest lands.

In 2020, authorities identified 8,057 acres of poppy fields in the state, with 1,695 acres being eradicated.

By 2024 and 2025, the area identified for poppy cultivation had significantly decreased, indicating the effectiveness of the multi-faceted strategy employed by both state and central governments.

The Defence spokesperson emphasized that the Assam Rifles adheres to a zero-tolerance policy towards narcotics-related activities, leading to legal actions against cultivators, facilitators, and financiers.

He reiterated the force's determination to eradicate poppy farming along the India-Myanmar border and its commitment to ensuring long-term stability and security in Manipur and surrounding areas.

According to the Defence official, the fight against illegal poppy cultivation has consistently been a priority for the Assam Rifles, as evidenced by their ongoing operations over the years.