In Manipur, the International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking was observed across the state today under the theme “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.” The state, bordering Myanmar and plagued by drug abuse for many years, pledged to eradicate the drug menace during the observance.

A report by J.J. Thokchom states, “The State Government observed the International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking 2024 in Imphal today. Manipur Police also marked the day with a bike rally across Imphal City this morning, flagged off by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. In his address, Mr. Singh linked the present crisis in Manipur with the BJP-led State Government’s campaign against drugs. He mentioned that 297 persons involved in drug use have been arrested since the campaign’s launch in 2018. The Chief Minister emphasized that the government will not relent, and the campaign against drugs will continue.”

According to the State Narcotics and Affairs of Border report, “Eighteen thousand six hundred sixty-four acres of land where poppy was planted have been destroyed in the last seven years under the state’s war against drugs campaign. It is noteworthy that poppy seeds contain opium, and the plant serves as a key source for many narcotics.”