Tripura Takes Bold Step: Drones to Combat Illegal Ganja Cultivation: CM

Agartala, Tripura – In a significant move to curb the pervasive issue of illegal ganja cultivation, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has issued a directive for the immediate deployment of drone technology across the state. This innovative approach aims to enhance surveillance and detection capabilities, marking a proactive stance against illicit drug activities.

The Chief Minister’s instruction came during a virtual review meeting of the Task Monitoring System held at the Tripura Civil Secretariat on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The meeting saw the participation of key officials, including departmental secretaries, directors, district magistrates, and superintendents of police from all eight districts of the state, underscoring the comprehensive nature of this initiative.

Key Directives from the Chief Minister:

• Drone Deployment for Ganja Cultivation: The primary directive mandates the use of drones to identify and monitor illegal ganja plantations. This technological integration is expected to provide a bird’s-eye view, making it easier to pinpoint remote or hidden cultivation sites that are difficult to access by traditional ground patrols.
• Comprehensive Review of State Issues: Beyond the focus on illicit cultivation, CM Saha also reviewed various critical aspects of state governance. These included:
  • Law and Order
  • Public Infrastructure
  • Healthcare Facilities
  • Education Sector
  • Power Supply
  • Traffic Congestion in Agartala City
• Improving Police-Public Perception: The Chief Minister emphasized the crucial need to enhance public perception of the police force, suggesting measures to foster better community relations and trust.
• Addressing Agartala’s Traffic Woes: To mitigate traffic congestion in the capital city, CM Saha proposed making garage space mandatory for vehicle owners, a move aimed at streamlining parking and traffic flow.
• Healthcare Infrastructure Boost: A specific instruction was given to the Health Department to ensure the full functionality of all oxygen plants and ventilators across healthcare facilities, highlighting the government’s commitment to public health preparedness.
• Task Monitoring System’s Importance: Chief Minister Saha underscored the vital role of the Task Monitoring System in guiding future development strategies. He stressed that issues flagged through this system would directly inform and shape the state’s progress.
• Proactive Governance: Saha lauded the efforts of all government departments and urged them to adopt a more proactive approach in addressing public grievances, reinforcing the commitment to responsive governance.

This strategic decision to leverage drones against illegal ganja cultivation reflects Tripura’s determination to tackle the drug menace head-on. By embracing modern technology, the state aims to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness in its anti-narcotics efforts. The comprehensive review meeting also signifies the government’s holistic approach to improving various sectors and ensuring the welfare of its citizens. The administration remains committed to fostering a safer and more prosperous Tripura.