Illegal poppy cultivation has been detected across 307 hectares of forest land in Churachandpur, Senapati and Chandel districts, exposing the continuing challenge of protecting Manipur’s forests from illicit cultivation, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Anurag Bajpai said today.
Addressing a press conference at the Forest Department headquarters, Bajpai said surveys were continuing and the affected area could increase as more forest land was examined. The department has been monitoring illegal poppy cultivation since 2018.
Of the identified area, bamboo plantations have been established across 255 hectares as part of efforts to restore degraded forests. Bajpai said the department was also exploring plant species that could inhibit poppy growth and engaging village chiefs to discourage cultivation by promoting alternative livelihood opportunities.
With poppy plants generally flowering in October, the department has stepped up vigilance and coordination with central forces to destroy illegal crops.
The threat extends beyond poppy cultivation. Bajpai said nearly 78 per cent of Manipur’s geographical area was classified as forest land, while forest cover accounted for about 74 per cent. With the dry season beginning, the department has issued a standard operating procedure to prevent forest fires and intensified preparedness against illegal felling, wildlife offences and forest-product smuggling.
Myanmar teak, areca nuts and timber were among the products being smuggled into Manipur, he said, adding that forest personnel were conducting foot patrols in vulnerable areas in coordination with security forces and intelligence agencies.
Revenue from seized forest products rose from Rs 30 crore in 2023-24 to Rs 38 crore in 2024-25 and Rs 47 crore in 2025-26, according to Bajpai. He said the department auctioned seized materials in accordance with the prescribed procedure.
Meanwhile, 12 staff members of the Thoubal Forest Division have been suspended in connection with alleged tree felling. An inquiry is underway.
Bajpai also disclosed that around 600 hectares had been diverted for development projects last year, with plantation activities undertaken to mitigate environmental losses. He expressed hope that the next forest assessment report, expected in 2026, would show improvement.
He stressed that plantation alone could not reverse forest degradation without stronger protection measures and community cooperation.
