Poppy Cultivation Destroyed in Palamu, Crackdown Intensifies

Police and Forest Department Jointly Uproot 15 Acres of Poppy

Key Points:

• 15 acres of illegal poppy destroyed in Palamu district
• Police filed FIRs under NDPS Act against cultivators
• 177 acres of poppy crops were destroyed in 2023 in the district

MEDININAGAR – Authorities have intensified operations against illegal poppy cultivation, destroying 15 acres of crops in Palamu district on the first day.

In a crackdown against illegal poppy farming, the Palamu police and forest department destroyed 15 acres of poppy crops in the Manatu police station area. The action took place in Sikra and Sikni villages, where illegal cultivation was being done secretly. Officials said traffickers had fenced the fields with wooden barricades.

Palamu SP Reeshma Rameshan stated that the campaign aims to completely eliminate poppy farming from the district. “We received information about the cultivation in Sikra and Sikni areas. A joint team acted immediately and destroyed the crops,” she added. FIRs have been registered under the NDPS Act against those involved.

Strict Measures and Background

The operation was carried out under the leadership of Manatu Police Station in-charge Nirmal Oraon, with assistance from forest department personnel. Officials removed the crops by uprooting them completely to prevent regrowth.

Authorities estimate that illegal poppy cultivation in Palamu has significantly reduced compared to previous years. In 2023, approximately 177 acres of poppy were destroyed. However, police and security agencies believe fewer areas have been cultivated in 2024, indicating the success of previous campaigns.

Continued Surveillance

To prevent further cultivation, surveillance has been increased in sensitive regions across the district. Police teams are actively monitoring the Manatu region and other hotspots. Local residents are being urged to report any suspicious farming activities.

Meanwhile, officials warned of strict legal action under the NDPS Act against anyone found involved in poppy cultivation. The drive will continue in the coming weeks to ensure the district remains free from illegal crops.