The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in its South-East Asia Opium Survey, 2023 revealed that Myanmar became the world’s top country in opium production. Myanmar (part of the Golden Triangle) overtook Afghanistan to become the world’s top opium producer. Became an opium producing country. Opium production was banned in Afghanistan after the Taliban came to power. Due to Taliban ban, opium cultivation has declined by 95 percent.
opium
- Its scientific name is Lachryma papaveris.
- It is made by drying the latex of the plant Papaver somniferum.
- Consuming it causes intoxication.
- It contains up to 12 percent morphine.
- By processing it, a drug called heroin is prepared.
Opium cultivation in Myanmar
- According to the report, the area of opium cultivation in Myanmar will increase by 18 percent to 47,100 hectares (1,16,400 acres) between 2022 and 2023.
- According to the data, the estimated yield of opium has increased by 16 percent to 22.9 kg per hectare, which is more than the previous production in 2022.
- This production of opium is the highest in 20 years.
- The total opium trade here has increased from $1 billion to $2.4 billion.
- This is 4.1 percent of the country’s GDP.
‘Golden Triangle’ or ‘Golden Triangle’
- The area bordering Myanmar, Laos and Thailand is called.
- This entire region has long been known for illegal production and trafficking of drugs.
- Reasons for increase in opium production in Myanmar
- The army will take over power in Myanmar in the year 2021. After this, the country’s economy is struggling with struggle and instability.
- Non-availability of market for farmers to sell their produce
- Rising inflation has also attracted farmers towards more opium.
- Opium cultivation is being done with full facilities. Even farmers are using fertilizers to increase production.
‘Golden Crescent’ area
- The Golden Crescent region includes Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan.
- This is also one of the major areas of opium production and distribution.
- The Golden Crescent region is located in the west of India.