Union Government Announces Annual Opium Licensing Policy for Crop Year 2025–26

The Union Government has announced the annual licensing policy for opium cultivation for the crop year October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026. The policy applies to farmers in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

Increase in Eligible Farmers

As per the policy, an estimated 1.21 lakh farmers are eligible for licenses to cultivate opium poppy in these states. This marks a 23.5% increase compared to the previous year, adding nearly 15,000 new farmers to the fold.

Focus on Medical and Palliative Needs

The government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring an adequate supply of alkaloids derived from opium for medical and palliative care requirements, in line with international obligations.

Minimum Qualifying Yield Norms

The government has clarified that licenses will be suspended for farmers under Concentrated Poppy Straw (CPS) cultivation who failed to meet the Minimum Qualifying Yield (MQY) of 800 kg/hectare in the 2024–25 crop year.

Modernisation of Alkaloid Factories

In a major boost to infrastructure, the government is upgrading its Opium and Alkaloid Factories. Notably, the Government Alkaloid Factory at Neemuch has received the WHO Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification this year, enhancing the quality and credibility of India’s opium-based pharmaceutical production.