Ranchi Police Deploy Drones to Combat Illegal Poppy Cultivation

Ranchi police are set to employ drones to survey remote areas for illegal poppy cultivation, marking a new phase in the crackdown against illicit farming. The initiative aims to map out and subsequently destroy the illicit crops, with authorities vowing to register First Information Reports and apprehend those involved.

Rural SP Praveen Pushkar stated that this year's cultivation has drastically reduced compared to previous seasons, a success attributed to intensified destruction drives and arrests. During a recent meeting with station in-charges from sensitive areas, instructions were issued to utilize drone technology for comprehensive surveys of remote regions.

Local leaders, including gram pradhans and mukhiyas, have been warned of strict action if they do not cooperate by reporting poppy cultivation. The administration is also intensifying awareness drives, organizing block-wise and police station-wise meetings to reinforce the message against engaging in such illegal activities. Residents in some villages, like Mukrumdih, have reportedly shifted to vegetable farming.