KANGPOKPI, Dec 23: Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) of Sadar Hills in Kangpokpi district have resolved to impose a complete ban on poppy cultivation across the district with effect from the New Year 2026, citing growing social, environmental and economic concerns.

According to reports, the decision was taken at a cabinet meeting of civil society bodies held at Kangpokpi on December 5. The meeting was attended by representatives of the Sadar Hills Chiefs’ Association, Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills, along with various tribal organisations, student bodies, women’s organisations, youth clubs and other community groups operating in the district.

Following the adoption of the resolution, a series of district-wide consultations were conducted to ensure effective implementation of the ban. These included a CSO meeting in Kangpokpi on December 10, a joint consultation with village chiefs from Southwest Sadar Hills, Gamgiphai–Taphou and Twilang areas at Bongmol 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.

The CSOs said all participating organisations and village chiefs unanimously agreed to enforce a complete ban on poppy cultivation within their respective jurisdictions from 2026 onwards. They said the decision was taken in the larger public interest, pointing to the serious social, environmental, economic and moral consequences linked to poppy cultivation.

The civil society groups maintained that the resolution reflected the collective will of the people of Kangpokpi district. They further warned that any village chief or authority found violating or failing to comply with the agreed resolutions would face strict action, as collectively decided by the CSOs.