Context:
- Security forces have destroyed over 600 acres of illicit poppy cultivation in hill districts of Ukhrul and Kangpokpi in Manipur.
- The action is part of an ongoing drive to curb illegal drug cultivation and narcotics networks in the State.
Key Highlights:
Law Enforcement Action / Case Facts:
- More than 600 acres of poppy fields destroyed.
- Operations conducted in multiple locations of Ukhrul district.
- The drive was carried out between December 16–20.
- Action taken by security forces, including State Police and central forces.
Policy and Administrative Context:
- Manipur has witnessed a rise in illicit poppy cultivation, often linked with:
- Drug trafficking networks
- Insurgent financing
- Environmental degradation
Significance:
- Aims to break the drug–insurgency–crime nexus.
- Reinforces the State’s zero-tolerance policy towards narcotics.
- Helps protect forest land and ecological balance.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Issue: Illicit poppy cultivation in Northeast India.
- Causes:
- Economic vulnerability
- Difficult terrain and weak monitoring
- Government Initiatives:
- Anti-narcotics drives
- Enforcement under NDPS Act, 1985
- Benefits:
- Reduced drug supply
- Improved internal security
- Challenges:
- Alternative livelihood gaps
- Cross-border drug networks
- Impact: Strengthens India’s fight against narcotics trafficking.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Facts & Provisions:
- NDPS Act, 1985 prohibits cultivation of opium poppy without licence.
- Keywords: Narco-terrorism, Internal Security, Alternative Livelihoods.
- Static Linkages:
- Internal security challenges in border States
- Role of Centre–State coordination
- Way Forward:
- Promote alternative livelihood schemes
- Use of satellite surveillance and drones
- Community participation in enforcement
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper III: Internal Security, Drug Trafficking
- GS Paper I: Geography – Northeast India