Poppy cultivation — another challenge for law enforcement authorities

Odisha authorities are confronting a surge in illegal opium poppy cultivation across districts like Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar, following a major hashish oil seizure. Vast tracts of poppy plants, particularly within the Similipal Tiger Reserve, have been discovered, raising alarms. Enforcement agencies are now focused on dismantling trafficking networks and identifying kingpins involved in luring villagers to cultivate the lucrative crop.