Northeast Desk, 16th September: In a significant step toward combating drug trafficking and illegal poppy cultivation, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced the seizure of drugs worth Rs 60,000 crore and the destruction of 18,000 hectares of poppy cultivation in the state. The announcement was made during the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU), held at Loktak Hall, Manipur Press Club, Imphal.
The operation forms part of Manipur’s ongoing efforts to address the drug crisis that has exacerbated amid the state’s current unrest. Speaking at the event, CM Singh highlighted the severe impact of the crisis, with numerous lives lost and many displaced into relief camps.
He urged the media to play a crucial role in disseminating accurate and verified information to prevent the spread of misinformation, emphasizing that the state’s war on drugs campaign is not targeting any specific community but is aimed at saving the state and nation.
“The government remains dedicated to protecting Manipur’s reserved forests and is fully committed to eradicating illegal poppy cultivation,” the Chief Minister said.
Singh also reiterated the government’s support for the media, introducing welfare schemes tailored for the fraternity, and welcomed constructive feedback to restore peace in the state.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Minister for IPR Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh, AMWJU President Bijoy Kakchingtabam, Editors’ Guild Manipur President Khogendra Khomdram, and other media personnel.