Rededication Programme Held at Saitual Excise Station

Saitual, January 2026: Today, the Excise & Narcotics Department, Saitual District, organised a rededication programme at the Excise & Narcotics Station, Saitual, which was attended by Excise Minister Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar.

Addressing the gathering, Excise Minister Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar said that although the Saitual Excise & Narcotics Station is only one year old, it has already shown significant progress. He said this reflects the hard work of the department’s staff and the cooperation of the local community. He noted that Saitual is a transit route for the inflow of drugs from Manipur. At the same time, the district is witnessing steady growth in tourism, with successful initiatives such as Tlaizawng Paradise at Phuaibuang and an increasing number of visitors to scenic destinations like Tamdil and surrounding hills. While this development is welcome, he cautioned that higher tourist inflow often brings challenges related to drug trafficking, making stricter enforcement measures necessary.

The Minister said that despite limited manpower, the Excise & Narcotics Department continues to work with full dedication and commitment. He added that Saitual District will soon have an Assistant Commissioner and urged close coordination with community leaders to intensify efforts in the fight against drugs.

The programme was chaired by Pu Peter Zohmingthanga, Joint Commissioner (Enforcement). The Excise Minister delivered the keynote address, and a departmental report was presented by Pu Lalruatliana, Officer-in-Charge of the Excise & Narcotics Station, Saitual District. W.O. Ramengmawia conducted the proceedings, while Rev. Lalsanglura Sailo, BCM Area Pastor, led prayers and the rededication service. Community leaders and representatives of NGOs were also present at the event.

Currently, eight staff members are posted at the Excise & Narcotics Station, Saitual District. In collaboration with MHIP and Sub-Headquarters YMA, a counselling board has been constituted to provide counselling to individuals apprehended in drug-related cases. During 2025, the department carried out inspections across all villages in Saitual District, resulting in the seizure of liquor, drugs, illicit distillation equipment, and vehicles. Several individuals have also been booked under the NDPS Act, 1985, and the MLP Act, 2019.