Changlang (Arunachal Pradesh), 12 March (HS): Assam Rifles, in collaboration with the district administration, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Arunachal Pradesh Police, launched a massive operation against opium cultivation in Changlang district. This operation was carried out against illegal opium cultivation in areas located near the India-Myanmar border.

Security forces destroyed illegal opium crops spread over several acres.

Local farmers and villagers were made aware about the ill effects of drugs and cultivation of alternative crops.

During this, patrolling was increased and suspicious activities were monitored to stop drug trafficking.

Assam Rifles officials said that such operations will continue continuously to stop opium cultivation and drug trafficking. Security agencies, in collaboration with the local administration, have intensified efforts to make the villagers aware about de-addiction and alternative agriculture.

It is noteworthy that opium cultivation is a big challenge in Changlang. Illegal opium cultivation remains a serious problem in Changlang, Tirap and Longding districts of Arunachal Pradesh. Opium is grown in large quantities in these areas, which may also be linked to Myanmar’s drug network. Keeping this in mind, the security forces launched a large-scale drive this time.

Officials say that the aim of this drive is not only to destroy opium cultivation, but also to encourage local people towards alternative livelihood, so that they stay away from illegal cultivation of narcotics.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash