OPIUM CULTIVATION (2025–26)

Current Context: Union Government has announced the annual licensing policy for opium cultivation for 2025–26 under NDPS Rules, 1985.

ABOUT OPIUM & CULTIVATION POLICY

• Opium poppy produces opium gum rich in morphine, codeine, thebaine (medicinal alkaloids).
• India is the only country allowed by UN (1961 Single Convention) to produce gum opium.
• Cultivation permitted in: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh (notified tracts).
• Licensing Authority: Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN), Gwalior (Ministry of Finance).
• Farmers must sell entire produce to CBN at government-decided price.