Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh led an anti-drug awareness campaign, urging citizens to reject narcotics and support a drug-free society. The state government reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug trafficking through enforcement, rehabilitation, public participation, and stronger India-Myanmar border security.
Reinforcing the state’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse and illicit trafficking, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday urged citizens, particularly the younger generation, to reject narcotics and actively contribute towards building a healthier, safer and more progressive society. The appeal came as the state observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with a series of awareness programmes highlighting the need for collective action against the growing menace of drugs.
The Chief Minister inaugurated a 10-km Mega Awareness Run from the Western Gate of the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal under the global theme, “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.” The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 1,300 runners representing different age groups, including a significant number of women and young people committed to promoting a drug-free society.
Addressing the gathering before flagging off the marathon, Singh praised the overwhelming response from participants and expressed satisfaction at seeing a large number of energetic and health-conscious youths joining the campaign. He stressed that eliminating drug abuse requires the active involvement of every citizen and called upon society to unite against narcotics.
Raising the slogan “No to Drugs,” the Chief Minister led participants, senior government officials and dignitaries in taking and signing a pledge against drug abuse. He reiterated that awareness, prevention and community participation remain the strongest tools in tackling the social and health consequences associated with narcotics.
Later, in a message shared on his X account, Singh reaffirmed the Manipur government’s unwavering resolve to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking. He declared that the state’s message was clear—“Yes to Life, No to Drugs.” He further stated that the government would continue strengthening prevention initiatives, strict law enforcement, rehabilitation services and public awareness campaigns to eliminate the drug menace from the state.
Manipur Director General of Police Mukesh Singh also addressed the gathering, emphasising that the responsibility of creating a drug-free Manipur cannot rest solely with the police department. He appealed to every section of society to actively participate in the anti-drug movement and support law enforcement agencies in their mission against narcotics.
“The fight against drugs is not solely the responsibility of the Manipur Police. We expect the entire population of the state to actively participate in this mission to make Manipur drug-free,” the DGP said.
Demonstrating the police department’s commitment to the campaign, Mukesh Singh personally participated in the 10-km awareness run under the men’s 40-plus category.
The programme, organised by the Manipur Police Department, was attended by Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, Chief Secretary Dr Puneet Kumar Goel, senior civil and police officials, and several other dignitaries.
Participants competed across four different categories during the marathon. Organisers announced cash prizes of Rs 10,000 for first place, Rs 5,000 for second place and Rs 3,000 for third place in each category. Selected participants will also receive consolation prizes worth Rs 1,000 each, encouraging wider community participation in future awareness drives.
The anti-drug campaign assumes added significance as Manipur continues to face challenges arising from its geographical location along the India-Myanmar border. Together with neighbouring Mizoram, the state has emerged as one of Northeast India’s major drug trafficking corridors due to its long and largely unfenced international boundary with Myanmar.
Drug trafficking networks have frequently exploited the porous border to smuggle narcotics, arms and other contraband into India, creating significant security and law enforcement challenges. Five districts of Manipur—Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Chandel, Kamjong and Ukhrul—share a 398-km unfenced international border with Myanmar, making surveillance operations particularly demanding.
Earlier this month, while addressing the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting in New Delhi, Chief Minister Singh highlighted the growing security concerns arising from the ongoing conflict in Myanmar. He called for stronger border management, enhanced surveillance infrastructure and improved coordination between central and state agencies to effectively curb cross-border drug trafficking, illegal arms smuggling and human trafficking.
The Chief Minister informed the meeting that the Ministry of Home Affairs has completed fencing nearly 50 kilometres of the India-Myanmar border, while construction of an additional 80-km stretch is currently underway to strengthen border security and prevent illegal movement.
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Reaffirming his government’s long-term commitment, Singh said the state administration would continue working closely with central agencies, security forces and law enforcement authorities to intensify anti-narcotics operations. He asserted that Manipur remains determined to stay at the forefront of India’s fight against drug trafficking, organised cross-border crime and illicit narcotics networks, while encouraging citizens to become active partners in building a healthier and drug-free future.
