Pledge administered to end illicit poppy cultivation in Ukhrul

DIO/Mungchan Zimik
UKHRUL, Sep 14: With an aim to actualise the vision of a drug free Manipur, the District Administration, Ukhrul organised a one day seminar on 'War On Drugs- Quest to end poppy cultivation' in collaboration with several civil society organizations (CSOs), Village Authorities and Church bodies at UBC Jubilee Hall, Khamphasom, Ukhrul today.
The program began with a welcome note from Nimmi Azingwungshi Khamrang, MCS, ADC/ ADM, Ukhrul followed by speeches from resource persons namely Shanngam S, IFoS, DFO Ukhrul; Dr Yuithingla Vashum, DACO and Ningsem Vashum, IPS, SP Ukhrul; Ramnganing SA, President TNWL; Themmaso Tallanao, President TMNL;  Columbus Leisan, CF, CARE Ukhrul and Remember Rimai, Pastor UBC.
Speaking as the functional president, Deputy Commissioner, Ukhrul Zuringla Kengoo expressed the need of making collective efforts to end poppy cultivation in Ukhrul district.
Highlighting the importance of adhering to measures to curb poppy cultivation, the DC asserted that strict legal actions will be taken up against the poppy cultivators.
Considering the menace caused by poppy cultivation to the society and its adverse impact on the environment , the DC appealed to all to join hands with the Government to stop poppy cultivation for a drug free society.
Speaking at the occasion, Ukhrul SP Ningshem Vashum highlighted the offences and penalty under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, of 1985 (NDPS Act)
He informed that Ukhrul District Police is working relentlessly to check poppy cultivation and cautioned that violators will not be spared and will be strongly dealt with.
Dr Yuithingla Vashum DACO, Ukhrul gave a brief scenario of Ukhrul district drug users and its alarming situation while District Forest Officer (DFO) Shangam Shaliwo in his speech elaborated on destruction caused by chemical fertilizers for poppy cultivation besides massive forest depletion leading to rapid environment degradation.
As a part of the programme, Ukhrul DC Zuringla Kengoo administered a public pledge to over 300 persons to end poppy cultivation and other illicit drug business within the jurisdiction of Ukhrul district.