Route for Drug Trafficking has Significantly Changed: Khemchand

Manipur chief minister Yumnam Khemchand on Friday said that in the wake of the 2023 crisis in Manipur, the route for drug trafficking had significantly changed.

Khemchand said that drugs trafficking have largely been diverted through Mizoram State, while smaller quantities continue to be routed from Moreh to Churachandpur via roads constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and after reaching Churachandpur, the nearest point for their distribution is Kwakta.

Khemchand was speaking at the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, 2026, at the Main Auditorium, City Convention Centre in Imphal.  The observance was organised by the Department of Social Welfare under the theme "World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses"

Recalling his recent interaction with Kwakta based Civil Society Organisations, the chief minister said that CSOs have informed him that nearly 70 percent of the youths in the area are indulging in drugs.

Stating that drug peddlers often allow users to purchase drugs on credit and that such practice have made the drug users get easy access to drugs,  Khemchand added that those adjoining areas to Kwakta like Moirang, Kumbi and Thanga have now become vulnerable.

During his speech, the chief minister narrated that during the late 70s, many youths started using heroin and drugs. However, at that time heroin was extremely expensive and it was largely affordable only to the children from rich families. But things have changed now, he added.

Recalling his experience as a sportsperson, the chief minister said sports can be a big defence against the use of drugs among youths.  Khemchand expressed his believed that when the youths of the State engage in active participation in Sports, it will foster the spirit to refrain from the usage of drugs.

The Chief Minister stated that building a drug-free society requires the responsibility of every individual, along with the collective efforts of local clubs, Meira paibis and civil society organisations  of the State.

 Robert Singh Kshetrimayum, Commissioner (Social Welfare Department) in his speech said that  drug addiction not only affects individuals but also has a devastating impact on their families. Owing to substance abuse, many talented youths have failed to realise their potential and achieve success in life, he added .

The commissioner also said that the menace of drug addiction knows no boundaries, affecting people irrespective of their economic background, gender, or age. However, according to State data on substance abuse, a significant percentage of those addicted to drugs are individuals below the age of 20 years old, Robert stated.

He further stated that one of the major factors contributing to drug addiction is peer pressure, coupled with the curiosity and urge to experiment with new substances.