IMPHAL | Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Thursday said drug trafficking networks operating in the state have altered their routes following the ethnic violence that erupted in 2023, with a significant portion of illicit narcotics now being routed through Mizoram.

The Chief Minister made the remarks while addressing the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026 at the City Convention Centre in Imphal. The event was organised by the Social Welfare Department under the theme, “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”

Speaking on the evolving nature of narcotics trafficking in the region, Singh said traditional smuggling channels have undergone major changes since the outbreak of ethnic unrest in Manipur.

According to the Chief Minister, a substantial volume of drug trafficking has shifted through Mizoram, while smaller consignments continue to enter Manipur through the border town of Moreh. He alleged that these consignments are transported to Churachandpur using roads developed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana and subsequently distributed through the town of Kwakta.

Reflecting on the history of drug abuse in Manipur, Singh recalled that heroin consumption began gaining prominence in the late 1970s and was initially limited to wealthier sections of society due to the high cost of narcotics. Over time, however, drug abuse has spread across wider sections of the population, posing a major social challenge.

The Chief Minister cited a recent interaction with civil society organisations in Kwakta, where representatives reportedly informed him that nearly 70 per cent of local youth were involved in substance abuse.

He further alleged that drug peddlers often supply narcotics on credit, making them more accessible and increasing the risk of addiction among young people.

Singh also expressed concern about the growing vulnerability of neighbouring areas such as Moirang, Kumbi and Thanga to drug-related problems.

Highlighting preventive measures, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of sports and youth engagement in combating substance abuse. Drawing from his own experience, he said participation in sports during his younger years helped keep him away from drugs and urged greater investment in sporting activities to steer youth away from addiction.

Calling for a collective response, Singh said the fight against drugs cannot be left to the government alone and requires active participation from citizens, local clubs, Meira Paibi groups and civil society organisations.

Also speaking at the event, Robert Singh Kshetrimayum said drug addiction destroys not only individuals but entire families. He noted that a large proportion of substance abuse cases in Manipur involve people below the age of 20, with peer pressure and curiosity among the key factors driving addiction.

The programme was attended by Sheikh Abdul Hakim, representatives of non-governmental organisations, teachers, students and other stakeholders. During the event, memorandums were also submitted to the Chief Minister by private rehabilitation centres and the Welfare Association of Blind, Manipur