Chief Minister N. Biren Singh chaired a consultative meeting of village Chiefs of different villages of Ukhrul district, which are affected by the destruction of poppy plants under Government’s ‘War on Drugs’ campaign at Chief Minister’s Secretariat today.

Plantation and processing of lemongrass as an alternative livelihood for affected villagers was the main agenda of the meeting. In a PowerPoint presentation prepared by the Tribal Affairs and Hills Department, it was informed that the State Government has sought approval of a project costing Rs. 6.8 crore from the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs regarding plantation of lemongrass in 130 hectares of different hill districts of the State. Necessary steps have been taken up to implement a pilot project costing Rs 60 lakh by the Manipur Food Industries Corporation Ltd. to plant lemongrass on 10 hectares of Senapati district and 3 hectares in Ukhrul district. The project may further expand if it is successful. The State RD&PR Department has also given permission to the plantation of lemongrass under MGNREGA.

Speaking at the meeting, N. Biren Singh said that the Government is trying to provide alternative means of livelihood to poppy growers. He directed the officials to convene a joint meeting of all the concerned officials and stakeholders to identify the villages where lemongrass plantation may commence. He said that villagers would automatically switch to other occupations if the Government provides proper assistance. He further stated that suitable livelihood activities may also be identified keeping in view the climatic and soil condition and interest of villagers.

Tribal Affairs and Hills Minister Vungzagin Valte, Social Welfare Minister O. Henry, MLAs TN Haokip, DD Thaisii, Ngamthang Haokip, Yamthong Haokip, Ginsuanhau, Khasim Vashum, K. Leishiyo, Alfred Kanngam Arthur, DGP LM Khaute, Commissioner (Home) Gyan Prakash, Special Secretary (TA and Hills) Chiphang Arthur Worchuiyo, Ukhrul DC  Joshep Pauline Kamson, Ukhrul SP   Worngam Ningshen and other high ranking officers of Police Department were also present at the meeting.