Kuki CSOs declare ban on poppy cultivation

Our Correspondent
KANGPOKPI, Dec 23: In a historic and unanimous decision, the "Cabinet meeting" of all civil society organi-sations (CSOs) of Sadar Hills has resolved to completely halt poppy cultivation across Kangpokpi district with effect from New Year 2026.
The decision was taken on December 5.
The civil society organisations included Sadar Hills Chiefs' Association (SAHILCA), Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills (KISH), all tribe organisations of the district, student bodies, women organisations, youth clubs, etc.
To ensure that this landmark resolution is not merely declaratory but fully enforceable on the ground, the CSOs of Kangpokpi district have subsequently undertaken a series of inclusive, consultative, and district-wide dialogues involving all stakeholders, particularly village authorities and traditional leaders.
These included a meeting of the CSOs at Kangpokpi on December 10, a joint consultation with village chiefs from Southwest Sadar Hills, Gamgiphai–Taphou and Twilang areas at Bong-mol village on December 16, and another joint meeting with village chiefs from Ukhrul, Bungpi and Saikul areas at the Saikul Community Hall on December 19.
Across all these meetings, every participating CSO and village chief unanimously pledged and committed that poppy cultivation will be completely banned in their respective jurisdictions from 2026 onwards.
The CSOs said the decision was taken in the larger public interest, citing the adverse social, environmental, economic and moral consequences associated with poppy cultivation, and described it as a reflection of the collective will of the people of Kangpokpi district.
Any village chief or authority found violating or failing to comply with the resolutions adopted in these public meetings shall face strict and decisive action, said the CSOs.