INVC NEWS
New Delhi : Explore the 2023-24 opium licensing policies in India, as outlined by the Central Revenue Department. Get insights into the criteria for eligibility, designated cultivation areas, and more and Stay updated with the Central Revenue Department’s latest guidelines for opium farming in India for 2023-24. Find out who qualifies, where cultivation is allowed, and what methods are approved .
Comprehensive Guide to New Opium Licensing Policies for 2023-24
An Overview: Opium Cultivation Licenses Across Indian States
The Central Revenue Department of India has given the green light for opium cultivation in designated tehsils within eight districts of Madhya Pradesh for the crop year 2023-24. In addition, 49 tehsils in seven Rajasthan districts and 28 tehsils across nine Uttar Pradesh districts have been cleared for opium farming. It’s crucial to note that the Central Revenue Department refreshes its opium policy each year.
Criteria for Licensing: Who Qualifies?
Farmers are granted licenses to grow opium if they fulfill specific conditions outlined in the official opium policy. Essentially, cultivation is allowed only in areas pre-approved by the government, and only according to designated agricultural practices.
Breaking Down the 2023-24 Policy Details
On September 13, the terms for opium cultivation were formally published. This year’s policy permits cultivation without bud incisions, applying both traditional and CPS (Controlled Penetration System) methods. Furthermore, the department has disclosed a list of authorized zones for opium farming.
Geographic Scope: Tehsils Designated for Opium Cultivation
In Madhya Pradesh alone, six tehsils in Neemuch, eight in Mandsaur, six in Ratlam, and three in Ujjain have been approved. Also, individual tehsils in Agar Malwa, Jhabua, Rajgarh, and Shajapur are included. Selected villages in Manasa, Jeeran, Singoli, and Rampura will receive leases.
Volume of Licenses: A Look at the Numbers
Madhya Pradesh is expected to issue around 54-55 thousand licenses via a blend of traditional and CPS methods. Furthermore, the Anke College of Horticulture in Mandsaur is slated to obtain a license for experimental purposes.
Rajasthan’s Stake in Opium Production
In Rajasthan, licenses will go to farmers in 49 tehsils across districts like Kota, Bara, Udaipur, Jhalawar, Chittorgarh, Pratapgarh, and Bhilwara. Notably, the Rajasthan College of Agriculture in Udaipur will be granted an experimental license. Around 47,000 farmers are likely to secure leases via traditional and CPS systems.
Uttar Pradesh’s New Opium Policy Implications
A total of 28 tehsil areas in nine Uttar Pradesh districts have been greenlit for opium production. Moreover, experimental licenses will be provided in Barabanki and Faizabad districts. It’s anticipated that roughly 10,500 farmers will qualify for leases across both categories.
In summary, the Central Revenue Department’s opium policy for 2023-24 is set to diversify the landscape of opium cultivation in India. Through an intricate system of licenses and criteria, the Department aims to regulate the farming of this vital yet potent crop.
