On December 4, 2025, former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh issued a grave warning: the state faces an “existential crisis” if rampant deforestation and illegal poppy cultivation are not curbed immediately. His remarks, shared publicly along with video evidence of forest destruction in Kangpokpi district, have reignited urgent debates on environmental sustainability, law enforcement, and community responsibility in the northeastern state.
The Scale of Deforestation in Manipur
Manipur has witnessed alarming forest loss in recent years.
- Reports indicate that over 52,000 acres of forest cover were lost between 2021 and 2025, largely due to illegal logging, shifting cultivation, and poppy plantations.
- Singh highlighted that deforestation has worsened soil erosion, leading to recurrent floods and landslides.
- The destruction of forests also threatens biodiversity, including rare medicinal plants and wildlife unique to the region.
This unchecked deforestation undermines both ecological balance and the livelihoods of indigenous communities.
The Rise of Poppy Cultivation
Illegal poppy cultivation has become a major concern in Manipur’s hill districts.
- Security forces recently destroyed 675 acres of poppy plantations across Kangpokpi, Ukhrul, Tamenglong, Chandel, Tengnoupal, and Senapati.
- Aerial surveys detected 700 additional acres of poppy fields in Kangpokpi alone, underscoring the scale of the problem.
- Singh warned that poppy cultivation not only fuels the narcotics trade but also accelerates deforestation, as forests are cleared to make way for plantations.
The dual impact of narcotics and environmental degradation poses a severe threat to Manipur’s future.
Political and Social Reactions
Singh’s warning has drawn mixed responses:
- Civil society groups welcomed his call, urging stronger enforcement against illegal cultivation.
- Environmental activists stressed that the government must prioritize reforestation and community awareness.
- Critics, however, questioned why such warnings were not acted upon more decisively during Singh’s tenure as Chief Minister.
Despite differing views, there is consensus that urgent action is needed to prevent long-term ecological collapse.
Why This Is an Existential Crisis
The phrase “existential crisis” used by Singh reflects the severity of the situation:
- Water security: Deforestation reduces natural water retention, worsening droughts and floods.
- Food security: Soil erosion and loss of arable land threaten agriculture.
- Health risks: Poppy cultivation fuels drug abuse, impacting youth and community health.
- Cultural identity: Indigenous traditions tied to forests are at risk of disappearing.
Unchecked, these factors could destabilize Manipur’s society, economy, and environment.
Government and Security Measures
Authorities have stepped up enforcement:
- Joint teams of Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, CRPF, and forest officials destroyed poppy fields in Senapati and other districts.
- Anti-narcotics crackdowns have intensified, but aerial surveys show cultivation continues in remote areas.
- Reforestation drives and awareness campaigns are being planned, though implementation remains slow.
Singh’s warning underscores the need for sustained, coordinated action across government, security forces, and local communities.
READ MORE: Water Pollution Amendment Act 2024 in Manipur: Rajya Sabha Extends Law
The warning from N. Biren Singh is not just political rhetoric—it is a wake-up call. Manipur’s forests are vanishing, and illegal poppy cultivation is spreading. Together, these forces threaten the state’s survival.
Citizens, policymakers, and activists must unite to demand stronger enforcement, promote sustainable farming, and protect Manipur’s fragile ecosystems. The time to act is now—before the existential crisis becomes irreversible.