The Government of India announced the annual opium poppy cultivation licensing policy for the crop year 2025-26 (October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026). Cultivation is permitted in three states — Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. The eligibility is expanded to an estimated 1.21 lakh farmers, a 23.5% increase over the previous year. The policy supports India's legitimate pharmaceutical, medical, and palliative care needs. For Rajasthan, the districts of Chittorgarh, Jhalawar, Kota, Baran, and Pratapgarh are traditionally major opium cultivation zones.
Opium Poppy Cultivation Policy 2025-26: Rajasthan Among Three States
The Government of India announced the annual opium poppy cultivation licensing policy for the crop year 2025-26 (October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026). Cultivation is permitted in three states — Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. The eligibility is expanded to an estimated 1.21 lakh farmers, a 23.5% increase over the previous year. The policy supports India's legitimate pharmaceutical, medical, and palliative care needs. For Rajasthan, the districts of Chittorgarh, Jhalawar, Kota, Baran, and Pratapgarh are traditionally major opium cultivation zones.
Key facts
- Opium poppy cultivation licensing policy 2025-26 announced by central government.
- Cultivation permitted in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Eligibility expanded to 1.21 lakh farmers — 23.5% increase over previous year.
- Policy supports India's pharmaceutical, medical, and palliative care needs.
- Rajasthan districts: Chittorgarh, Jhalawar, Kota, Baran, and Pratapgarh are key zones.
- Crop year runs from October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026.
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How many states are permitted for opium poppy cultivation under the 2025-26 policy?
Opium poppy cultivation is permitted in three states — Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh under the 2025-26 policy.
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Frequently asked questions
Which three states are permitted to cultivate opium poppy under India's 2025-26 licensing policy?
Opium poppy cultivation is permitted in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh under the Government of India's licensing policy for crop year 2025-26 (October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026).
Which districts in Rajasthan are the primary zones for opium poppy cultivation?
The key opium poppy cultivation districts in Rajasthan are Chittorgarh, Jhalawar, Kota, Baran, and Pratapgarh. These districts have traditionally been the major cultivation zones under the annual licensing policy.
By how much was farmer eligibility expanded under the opium poppy cultivation policy 2025-26?
Farmer eligibility was expanded to an estimated 1.21 lakh farmers under the 2025-26 policy, representing a 23.5% increase over the previous year's figures.
What is the purpose of opium poppy cultivation permitted by the Government of India?
The Government of India permits opium poppy cultivation to support India's legitimate pharmaceutical, medical, and palliative care needs. The cultivation is strictly licensed and regulated to prevent misuse.
What is the crop year duration for the opium poppy cultivation policy 2025-26?
The crop year for the opium poppy cultivation policy 2025-26 runs from October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026. Only farmers in licensed districts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh are eligible.
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