Imphal: ‘As season (September-April) for poppy seed sowing and cultivation approaches’, the Chief Conservator of Forest, Manipur has directed all territorial DFOs to keep a vigil in their respective jurisdiction on such possible cultivation by ‘anti-social elements’ which not only harm the ecology of the area but also destroy the health of the society.
Such activity on forest lands also violates the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985; Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980; and Indian Forest Act, 1927, said an office order issued on September 8.
The order copy was released on Thursday by DIPR.
“All Territorial DFOs are directed to sensitize their staff to remain vigilant on such activities during patrolling and also use drone technology in coordination with local Police Department,” the office order mentioned.
The chief conservator directed to immediately destroy all poppy cultivation as per standard operating procedures with the help of District Administration.
