Opium cultivation: 2700 farmers cultivating opium will get license
Opium cultivation: For many years, this area has been recognized as the epicenter of opium production. It is getting ready to bolster this custom once again. The District Opium Office is issuing licenses to farmers in six districts of Uttar Pradesh: Barabanki, Lucknow, Ayodhya, Ghazipur, Maharajganj, and Mau.
Approximately 3700 farmers received permission to grow opium last year. However, this time, 1500 farmers’ licenses have been revoked since they were unable to achieve the output requirement. As a result, it is anticipated that there will only be 2700 licensed farmers this year.
Time limit and online licensing procedure
The District Opium Office, situated on Rajkamal Road, is where licenses are being granted. Licenses are being granted this time using an online procedure. Traditional farmers who grow opium are renewing their previous permits. Farmers who were previously unable to grow must provide an explanation.
New cultivation techniques
Farmers are less likely to suffer losses while using the Concentrated Poppy Straw (CPS) technique, according to District Opium Officer Karun Bilgrami. Farmers no longer have to deal with figuring out the average amount of opium thanks to this technology. It is not yet required, however, and farmers are still able to grow opium using conventional techniques.
The period and location of opium production
In six districts, including Barabanki, opium planting begins at the end of November and the first week of December. Opium was grown on 370 hectares last year. Approximately 2650 farmers have filed for permits this time, and the license-issuing procedure is moving quickly.
Opium production in Barabanki and the neighboring areas is a reflection of both economic significance and agricultural history. The department’s goal this time is to license 2700 farmers, which will increase the scope of this traditional farming.
