IMPACT OF OPIUM ON KHAMPTI TRIBE OF

ARUNACHAL PRADESH
(A CASE STUDY OF EMPHUM VILLAGE, NAMSAI DISTRICT,
ARUNACHAL PRADESH)

Dissertation Submitted for partial Fulfillment of Master of Arts Degree in

Geography

Submitted by Supervised by
Joonmoni Deori Dr. C.N. Singkai
Enrollment No. A150001302

DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY
ARUNACHAL UNIVERSITY OF STUDIES
NAMSAI DISTRICT
ARUNACHALPRADESH
2015
 CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the present dissertation entitled “Impact of

Opium on Khampti Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh: A Case Study Of

Emphum Village, Namsai District, Arunachal Pradesh” is a bonafide

work carried out by Joonmoni Deori bearing enrollment

No.A150001302 under my supervision for partial fulfillment of Master

of Arts Degree in Geography.

(Dr. C.N. Singkai)

Supervisor & Head of the Dept.
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

At the very outset I would like to convey my sincere gratitude to Mr. C.N.

Singkai (supervisor) for sacrificing his invaluable time and providing material

support just only for me.

Heartfelt thanks to the Department of Geography for giving this fieldwork

opportunity in the form of a postgraduate dissertation.

I also want to thank my friends and kith & kin for handful support and co-

operation being rendered in one or other directly or indirectly for making this

dissertation accomplished from very beginning till to the end.

Also thanks to the people of Emphum village for sparing their precious time

in disseminating, interacting and channeling their affluent knowledge and ideas

without price to me despite of their heavy schedule.

Last but not the least I pay my gratitude one in all to everyone that has a

hand in making my dissertation successful.

Joonmoni Deori
 PREFACE
A dissertation, as a form of assessment differs from other module assessments. It is a

document submitted in support of candidature for an academic degree presenting the author’s

research and finding. It is also used for bachelor’s or master’s course in education.

This dissertation is submitted for the Master of Arts degree in Geography at the Arunachal

University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh. Its purpose is to introduce and demonstrate a

new approach to supporting high-level education system and opium impacts on youth.

My dissertation work was carried out on the impact of opium on Khampti tribe in Arunachal

Pradesh (A case study of Emphum village under Namsai district). This dissertation consists of

six chapters including figures, maps and tables. Research papers, internet source & journals was

used as references to write this dissertation. I tried to give more and more information regarding

on dissertation topic as much as possible.

I am extremely grateful to Dr.C.N.Singkai for his support & guidance during this process,

and for taking me on as one of his students. I also thank to my sister and relatives who helped me

a lot in the study site while work.

This dissertation would not have been possible without the guidance of many people who

encouraged me to pursue a seminary degree, and who were faithful to support me through to its

completion.

Lastly, I would happily dedicate this dissertation to my beloved parents for their blessings.
 CONTENTS
Certificate
Table list
Acknowledgement
Preface
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Statement of the problems
1.3 Objectives & Hypothesis
1.4 Methodology
1.5 Review of literature
2. Geographical background of study area (Namsai)
2.1 Topography
2.2 Vegetation
2.3 Soil and climate
2.4 Emphum village : An overview
3. Opium cultivation, extraction and methods of consumption
4. Adolescence and addiction & its problems
4.1 Social problems
4.2 Economic problems
4.3 Health problems
5. Institutional intervention
6. Recommendations & Conclusion
References
Glossary
Questionnaire
 1.1 INTRODUCTION

Arunachal Pradesh, one of the members of the NEC is a vast stretch of land located on

the lap of the Himalayas. Arunachal, the largest state in India‟s northeast, is encircled from three

sides by China, Myanmar and Bhutan. It stretches from snowcapped mountains in the north to

the plains of the Brahmaputra valley in the south. It is situated on the extreme north-eastern tip of

the union of India in trans- Himalayas region between the latitude 26° 28ˊN and 29°33ˊN and

longitude 91°31ˊE and 97°30ˊE. Strategically, it holds an important position, as it shares its

border with the Republic of China on its north, the state of Assam on its south, Myanmar on the

east and the Royal kingdom of Bhutan on the west.

The present study was conducted in the Emphum village, Namsai District of Arunachal

Pradesh. It is the home of mainly Khampti and Singpho tribes. Their population is not so large

but counted in census. Singphos and Mishmis were the main opium cultivators. Today they have

been joined by other ethnic groups.

The main crops grown in the district are maize, rice, and wheat as per survey of India Map,

1998. Interestingly, cultivation of opium as a crop finds no mention in the survey. But old

records show that opium has been cultivated in this for centuries. Opium is also being sold as an

important cash crop in these areas.

Road is the only means of transportation in the district. Besides small patches of surfaced

and non-surfaced roads, the district is connected to two – National Highway 52 and National

Highway 37.
 Opium is a drug, which is used by many people, is rising rapidly in India. The drug

menace touches millions of lives in both developed and developing countries. It‟s most negative

impact is concentrated amongst the vulnerable and marginalized in societies. Drug addiction

threatens the health of well being and ultimately the vitality and strength of communities.

Drug abuse in India is growing, cutting across a wide spectrum of society. Of Indian drug abuse,

drug users are largely young and predominantly male. Itinerant populations are extremely

susceptible to drug use. The number of women drug abusers is also increasing rapidly.

Drugs and alcohol abuse is really a concern as it could result in many harmful effects.

Nowadays, all the nations realized the complex inter linkage of terrorism, crime, corruption and

drug trafficking poses an unprecedented threat. In order to control the stemming problems,

various measures oriented towards its mitigation. Proper education and guidance would enable

youth to safeguard themselves against these dangerous behaviour patterns and follow healthy

lifestyles. The Central Bureau of Narcotics has found opium cultivation in many parts of Namsai

district of Arunachal Pradesh as an important cash crop.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEMS

The Namsai district is the new name given to Lohit district on 26 January 2015. It is the

home of following tribes‟ viz. Tai-Khamptis, Mishmis , Singphos and some other sub tribes. The

total estimated population is more than 20,000 in around 60 villages under Namsai sub-division.

Emphum is one of the villages among this district.

The main crop grown in the district are Rice, Maize, Ginger, Rape Mustard, Wheat etc.

besides growing some other fruits like Pineapples, Oranges, Jackfruits, Palm, Banana etc. Tea

plantation is also inchoate thereupon, which succor in eradicating poverty by generating stable
incomes compared to other annual field crops. Opium is not only cultivated, but is also sold in

the market to earn money. With the objective of completely doing away with drug abuse, field

oriented assessments of the users was undertaken.

Several plants, fruits and seeds have been used for hundreds of years in folk medicine,

religious ceremonies and rituals all over the globe. When these are taken for a purpose other than

medicinal use or in amounts/ frequency that impairs one‟s physical, physiological or

psychological functions, it constitutes drug abuse.

The long term objective however, was to propound the problem and to formulate a viable

alternative model, from the grassroots level, in order to shatter the problems which stunts the

path of development. It is therefore essential to develop comprehensive strategies, combining

action to reduce both supply and demand. Then and only then there will be significant progress

in dealing with drug abuse problems.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The principal objectives of the present investigation were as follows:

1. To study the socio-economic condition of the people, and the available resources present
on that region.

2. To determine the causes and impacts of opium addicts.

3. To analyze drug abuse with special reference to age variance among the people.

4. To generate awareness among the people about the ill effects of drugs.

1.3 HYPOTHESIS

1. The socio-economic condition of Emphum village is poor.

2. There is lack of social services like health and education in the village of Emphum.
 3. Communication is not provided.

4. Agriculture is the main source of their livelihood.

5. The main cause of the opium addiction is not because of its availability from primary

sources.

1.4 METHODOLOGY

The study was conducted in Emphum village, Namsai district, Arunachal Pradesh. The

village is mostly dominated by the Khamptis. The district is a heterogeneous plain composed of

green forest area and level plains. Its climate is Tropical wet with hot and wet summers and cool

winters. The study site was originally a poppy plant cultivation area and paddy along with tea

plantation area dominated by the Khamptis. The people in the area, like any others, are not well

educated and wealthy. Source of income and livelihood is agriculture and business.

Observation and interview was the main method used for collecting data. The tools used

for this purpose were questionnaires and interaction with village people. Duration of study was

for a short period. Ten households were surveyed in which all are found to be addicts. Generally

seen 80% are addicts in the village. Male addicts are only found.

Data recorded-

 Patterns of opium cultivation

 Preparation of edible opium

 Opium addicts

 Collection of information through interaction among people of the village

 Problem of opium abuse

Data representation was performed using Microsoft Excel.

Figure 1: Map of India showing Namsai district of Arunachal Pradesh including location of the
study site (Emphum village).
1.5 REVIEW OF LITERATURE

For the compilation of this dissertation, numbers of published and unpublished books and

materials have been perused.

Rapid Assessment Survey of Drug Abuse in India by Ministry of Social Justice and

Empowerment, Government of India and UNIDCP, Regional office for South Asia (2002)

highlight about the demographic characteristic of users, patterns, adverse health consequences,

treatment, violence, types of intervention etc. in which the study was carried out in 14 urban sites

of India.

Manual on the Design, Implementation and Management of Alcohol and Drug

Programmes at the workplace (ILO-Geneva) discussed about the problem poses by alcohol and

prevention strategies to mitigate it.

Feasibility study for Alternative Development of opium growing region, Arunachal

Pradesh, in which a case study was undertaken in Lohit district. ILO: 2002 concern about the

geo-environmental background of the district and proposed some alternative livelihood in opium

growing areas of Lohit district. CBN – UNDCP‟S survey of Lohit district, Arunachal Pradesh

report focus about the problems of addiction amongst the Khamptis and Mishmis in the district.

Poverty Alleviation Programmes and Tribal Development (A case study of Khampti

tribe) dissertation submitted by Nang H. Mantaw for partial fulfillment of the degree of master

of philosophy (1996-97) focuses about the socio-economic life of Khamptis and also highlighted

about the prevalent of opium in the communities.

Opium users describe experiencing a feeling of calm and well-being. Opium addicts in

otherwise good physical and mental health whose drug needs are met are thought to experience
no debilitating physiological effects from their addiction, although there is some evidence that

immune function is compromised. However, their preoccupation with the drug and its acquisition

can lead to malnutrition and general poor self-care and an increased risk of disease.

2. GEOGRAPHICAL BACKGROUND OF STUDY AREA (NAMSAI)

2.1 TOPOGRAPHY

Lohit District is a mountainous tract. On account of the existence of the hill ridges and the

valleys its topography assumes typical character. The hill ridges are situated haphazardly. As

soon as one ends the other ridge starts either parallel or in opposite direction. At these intervals

the wide or narrow valleys get the foothills constituting 20 per cent to total geographical

area of district. The wide and narrow valleys share 35 per cent each to total geographical area.

The rest about 10 percent is the snow clad peaks. Due to typical topography the rivers are

undulated. There are numerous streams and rivers and are drained by principal river Lohit,

Naodihing etc. These principal rivers of the district are drained by the westerly flowing

Brahmaputra. These rivers have rendered the human habitations into geographical isolations. At

the same time these rivers possess high hydro-power potential. It could be developed as a good

industry. The vast natural resources have drawn the attention of the Government during recent

years.

2.2 VEGETATION

It has rich forest, with lush, dense vegetation and a wide variety of flora and fauna. The

Forest has both tropical and sub-tropical characteristics, which is typical of many parts of

Arunachal Pradesh. Since Arunachal has regions in the plains as well as at higher altitudes. The

forest, with lush, dense vegetation and a wide variety of flora and fauna reflects the natural

beauty and biodiversity of the Piyong Reserve Forest. Situated 75 km from Tinsukia town, the
major railway station, Namsai is fast developing as township. If you are so inclined, visit the

bamboo shoot processing project where the traditional bamboo is used for several modern

processes. There is also traditional mat-making unit which will you an insight to these old

methods. Training workshop and demonstration for cluster /community level bamboo shoot

processing carried out in Lohit district (Namsai) in June 2006.

In 1989 Lohit district became home to the Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary, which has an area

of 783 km2 (302.3 sq mi).[6] It is the home to some of the endangered flora and fauna. The district

has been found to be an ideal place for Jatropha cultivation, which is used for bio-diesel making.

The Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1989, is rich in flora and fauna. It is

situated in the Lohit District of the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. The park is

named after the Kamlang River which flows through it. The Hishmi, Digaru, and Mizo tribal

people who reside around the periphery of the sanctuary claim their descent from the

King Rukmo of the epic Mahabharata. They believe in a myth of an invisible god known as Suto

Phenkhenynon jamalu. An important body of water in the sanctuary is the Glow Lake. Located

in tropical and sub-tropical climatic zones, the sanctuary is the habitat of the four big cat species

of India: tiger, leopard, clouded leopard and snow leopard.

2.3 SOIL AND CLIMATE

The district has soil strongly to moderately acidic in nature (PH 4 to 7) which are

loamy sand- sandy loam, rich in organic matter content (0.3 to 3.31% OC) which declines

sharply with depth. The soils of Summit to ridges are mostly shallow to deep, loamy skeletal to

sandy- skeletal excessively drained & subject to severe erosion hazards. Soil shows lack of
profile development (A/C horizons) .On moderately steep side slopes of hills, moderately

shallow to deep, well to somewhat excessively drained, loamy- skeletal/clayey, fine-

loamy to fine particle classes with very severe to moderate erosion hazards. On moderate slopes

are deep, well drained, fine/ fine -loamy, clayey/loamy skeletal in particle size classes &

moderately eroded. Soils are well developed. Due to excessive precipitation & low temperature,

Steep hill slopes & tectonically disturbed in conjunction with human interference on vegetative

cover for long, these soil suffer from 1) Soil erosion & landslides, 2) Limiting soil depth in steep

hill slopes, 3) Soil acidity & 4) Low CEC & poor base- status of the soil. These acidic soils are

rich in organic matter with high rainfall & cold climate favour the plantation of different

temperate &sub-tropicalfruits like pears, Peach, Plum, Apple, Tea &Pineapple cultivation at foot

hill in addition to vegetables.

The rainfall in Namsai is significant, with precipitation even during the driest month. This

climate is considered to be Cfa according to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification.

In Namsai, the average annual temperature is 22.8 °C. Precipitation here averages 2728 mm. The

"mean daily maximum" shows the maximum temperature of an average day for every month for

Namsai. Likewise, "mean daily minimum" shows the average minimum temperature. Hot days

and cold nights show the average of the hottest day and coldest night of each month of the last 30

years. For vacation planning, you can expect the mean temperatures, and be prepared for hotter

and colder days. Monthly precipitations above 150mm are mostly wet, below 30mm mostly dry.
2.4 EMPHUM VILLAGE: AN OVERVIEW

Emphum village, mostly dominated by Khamptis and some Singphos, is in southern

portion of Lohit River in the Namsai district. These people were originally from Myanmar, who

settled in the plains of Namsai district around 200 years ago. They are mostly Buddhists. This

village is under Chongkham circle of the Hawai sub-division was approached from Tinsukia in

Assam. Male population is more than females as per 2001 census.

The people of this village belong to the indigenous faith. Celebration of their religious

festivals like Sangken, poi pee maw, poi put waa, etc was observed. Most houses are made of

wood, bamboo and thatch, intertwined with ropes. All the house-building materials are gathered

from the nearby forests. Pigs, poultry, cows, goats and elephants are kept in their houses.

Wet cultivation is practiced by them. Land is distributed among the families by the Gaon

Bura and the Village Council. Crop yielding is average. Infrastructure facilities are not in

sufficient amount. Opium is the Panacea for pain. In the villages of this district, medical

facilities are hopelessly in adequate and out of date. All villages resort to herbal medicine and

traditional medical practitioners are popular. Education is restricted to schools upto v.

Aaganwadi centre is available for the children of poorest family in the village. Basic amenities

like electricity and irrigation is good in the villages.

Men are the protagonists of earner in the family. Women are generally engaged in the

weaving, knitting, cooking and other household petty, besides some are enlisted in government

services. The preferred source of income of the village is agriculture, handicraft, farm animals

and other activities. The main problems with the village economy are:
 1. Poor access to market,

2. Drug abuse,

3. Markets are not profitable,

4. Poor production,

5. Illiteracy,

6. Animal dies, and others.

In the rubric of developmental efforts the available infrastructure facilities of the village and the

serene atmosphere at the village plays an important role. Table 1.1 shows different facilities

available in the village.

Table 1
Sl No. Infrastructure facilities Unit
1 Distance from Namsai 50 KM
2 Distance from nearest bus stop 1 Km (Manmow)
3 Health institution PHC
4 Communication Normal pucca road
5 Water supply Tube well, Well, tape, river
6 Electricity Yes
7 Post office 1 No.
8 No. of shops 2 No.
9 No. of fair price shops 1 No.
10 Education institution Govt. Primary School
11 Aaganwadi centre 1 No.
12 Transportation Auto rickshaw, tempo
13 Food & Income Source Land, farming, livestock,
private business
Figure 2: National map of Khampti inhabited area.
3. OPIUM CULTIVATION, EXTRACTION AND METHODS OF CONSUMPTION

INTRODUCTION

The drugs, which are commonly abused are opium, cannabis and cocaine. Majority of

these are obtained from flowering plants. Some are obtained from fungi.

Opium is an alkaloid derivative of Papaver somniferum commonly known as poppy. The

other derivatives of this plant are Heroin, Morphine, Codine and Papaverum, ganja. Derivatives

like Morphine have long been used as medicine. Though the medicinal properties of this plant

cannot be totally ignored, the problem arises when the derivatives are abused as a drug, a

panacea for allevils rendering the user slothful and dull and addicted. Morphine is a very

effective sedative and painkiller, and is very useful in patients who have undergone surgery.

Several plants, fruits and seeds having hallucinogenic properties have been used for hundreds of

years in folk-medicine, religious ceremonies and rituals all over the globe. When these are taken

for a purpose other than medicinal use or in amounts/frequency that impairs one‟s physical,

physiological or psychological functions, it constitutes drug abuse.

Ages of male addicts are from 20 years onwards. Addiction cause varies. It is seen among

youngsters mostly. Opium is sold as per tola , roughly equivalent to 10 grams. Price ranges from

Rs.100 and above. If not possible to pay money, addicts either exchange opium with something

else but have to pay. Opium is very costly. The person selling opium if loses a little bit of opium

means lose in business. Quality of opium also varies according to the quantity of opium smeared

on the cloth. Good quality when opium smeared is more on the cloth.

People generally hesitated to divulge information regarding poppy cultivation. The

plantation area too shifts each year, probably due to the CBN‟s policy of destroying such

plantations. In fact, many reported that as the CBN team destroyed crops that were near the
roads, they moved the cultivation to the inaccessible parts of the forests and mountains. The

addicts, who did not grow the product claimed to procure it from other sources. There is a silent

conspiracy about this activity. Addiction of alcohol is considered worse than opium addiction.

Maltreatment of wives was the main reason why wives encouraged opium addiction among their

husbands. Alcohol and opium are not consumed together. Apong is a popular drink offered to

guests on all occasions with chicken or other vegetable curry. Addiction was of course the

universal reason for cultivation besides a small portion being reserved for rituals and for

medicinal use.

CULTIVATION and EXTRACTION PROCESS

Keeping in view of shade and fertility a patch of land is cleared for the sowing of the

poppy plant in around late September and continues up to December. Its plantation needs a lot of

weeding and caring. Therefore, planters keep themselves busy till captivating flowers of red,

crimson and white adored the plants. Gradually flowers mature and shed its petals exposing a

green capsules. Latex of matured capsules used for taking a white coloured sap with help of an

indigenous tool and carefully wiped away in a piece of cloth. When Opium is smeared in a cloth

is fully soaked then, dried naturally and thereafter usually stored in a bamboo Chunga in the safe

custody of the individual. . The crop is harvested between the months of February and April. The

cultivators themselves or other volunteers undertake the two operations of lancing and collection.

The villagers sometimes eat the poppy seed after the rest of the plant (husk, straw) is

thrown away. Also the seeds are preserved for next year‟s cultivation and opium is extracted

from the husk. This is done by boiling the husk. Seeds are sometimes sold to other addicts and

brokers who use no other derivative of poppy or any other drugs. The addicts are aware of the
legislations regarding opium but helpless because of their addicts, and only pay lip service to the

legislation.

Figure 3: Opium cultivated plants

Figure 4: Green capsules of opium plant

Figure 5: Matured seeds and flower of opium plant
METHODS OF OPIUM CONSUMPTION

As oral consumption needs a minute to gulp down in the form of mixtures, its smoking pattern

requires several indigenous tools and hour long processing. Two methods of consumption are

found. They are-

i. Pucca method and

ii. Kutcha method.

Figure 6: Materials required for opium consumption

In pucca method, according to requirement a piece of opium smeared cloth is taken and put in

the boiling water preferably in a brass ladle. When stirred opium content is isolated and the rag is

thrown out.

Figure 7: Opium smeared cloth and Opium content in boiling water

After more evaporation a blockish content in semi solid form remains in the spoon which is

again mixed with dried plantain leaves cut in the shape of thin thread and dried before hand, with

the help of a spatula.

Figure 8: Mixing of opium content with beforehand dried plaintain leaves

Figure 9: Completely mixed up final product with help of spatula
Now the final product which feels like gummy substance put in small lumps in smoking pipe

(especially made of bamboo) and lit. Opium smoking is never a hasty affair. In order to get full

satisfaction one must smoke it leisurely in between mugs of black tea without sugar and in the

company of other addicts.

Figure 10: Small lumps of final product putting in smoking pipe made of bamboo and
consuming it.
In kutcha method, a piece of opium smeared cloth is boiled in black tea without sugar and then

consumed.

Pucca method, though a long process, is mostly used by the addicts to consume opium. Besides,

sometimes, they also chewed raw opium. Pucca addicts are hardened users, as they require at

least ten tolas a month.

Figure 11: A photo taken, myself with an opium plant

 4. ADOLESCENCE AND ADDICTION & ITS PROBLEMS

Adolescence means both „a period‟ and „a process‟ during which a child becomes mature

in terms of his/her attitudes and beliefs for effective participation in society. It is accompanied by

several biological and behavioural changes. Thus, is a very vulnerable phase of mental and

psychological development of an individual.

Curiosity, need for adventure and excitement, and experimentation, constitute common

causes, which motivate youngsters towards drug and alcohol abuse. The perception among youth

that it is cool or progressive to smoke, use drugs or alcohol, is also in a way a major cause for

youth to start these habits. Television, movies, newspapers, internet, unstable or unsupportive

family structures and peer pressure also help to promote this perception.

Because of the perceived benefits, drugs are frequently used repeatedly. With repeated use

of drugs, the tolerance level of the receptors present in our body increases. Thus, the addictive

potential of drugs and alcohol, pull the user into a vicious circle leading to abuse from which he

may not be able to get out. In the absence of any guidance or counseling, the person gets

addicted and becomes dependent on their use. Dependence leads to withdrawal syndrome, the

patient to ignore all social norms in order to get sufficient funds to satiate his needs. This result

in many social adjustment problems.

Opium addiction is a significant problem found in Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Lohit district has no medical treatment available for opium addiction. Moreover, the overall aim

is to describe nature and extent of opium use and its adverse effects. Regarding the use and

prevalence of opium amongst the Khamptis, the survey conducted revealed the following facts.

1. Earlier opium was used as a traditional medicine.

 2. Nowadays it is used as an drug addictive.

3. It was advent in the society by the British.

4. Opium is now cultivated almost in all families.

5. Opium is not used as a social intoxicant.

6. It is sold privately by the cultivators, which is also a source of their

livelihood.

7. Opium is neither a part of culture nor of life system, even it is not used in

religious ceremonies.

8. Opium consumption was seen starting from youngsters, mostly in male.

The Khamptis believed that the British deliberately introduced opium as drugs. As the

Khamptis were an aggressive group of people, the drug was used as a means to make them pliant

and obedient. The majority of the people state that, opium was taken as a sedative for curing

physical ailments. This is further established through the finding that the majority of the addicts

took to the addiction in order to cure particular ailments that they are suffering from. Candidly,

the problem was abetting during the inception of timber operation in the region. In which people

sojourn in jungle for cutting trees and collecting timbers and use to take opium as a medicine,

thereby to protect against adverse environmental condition. At present the number of addicts in

the society is increasing because the younger has started taking too. On the premise of which, the

problem stemming from opium is also increasing, which is usually ascribe to three problems i.e.

SOCIAL, HEALTH and ECONOMIC PROBLEMS.

4.1 SOCIAL PROBLEMS

There are myriad of social problem posed by the opium, which is a major threat to the

Khampti people and hinder their development. People held responsible mainly to the
administration and partly to the society for increasing number of drug addicts and illicit growing

of poppy plant in the region. Addicts implicate to the police personnel, as they are also indulged

in consuming, selling and illegal transition of opium, whereas law proscribes it. It is said that

opium is supplied in tin and sachet in order to conceal from the public by the cloak of it.

On the other hand, the society, especially the women and students association persevered

in their effort to eradicate it by organizing the de-addiction camp, programmed and intensifying

social mobilization. It is said that a community‟s strength lies in the capacity to solve its

problems as they arise. In pursuit of „drug free society‟ it needs the cooperation of the addicts

without which it is impossible to eradicate.

The main social harms and problems caused by the opium addiction, as stated by the

people are listed below:-

1. It evokes a number of thieves, treacheries, crimes and violence in the society.

2. It straggled the societies in the path of development hampering development of

society in terms of culture and tradition.

3. It steers the society towards darkness and ultimately shatter the society.

4. It transgresses the principles and spirits of the society.

5. It destroyed the emotional intelligence of the people because of which social

disharmony sprouts.

6. It creates a male marriage squeeze because the males are the predominant addict‟s

vis-à-vis the females because of which many women eloped with other tribe and

caste.

7. It increase the number of drug related accidents and deaths.

 8. Addicts become burden for all, society in general, cause of mental and financial

distress to his entire family and friends.

9. It set a bad example for posterity.

10. It stigmatizes the community as a drugs addicted, which is indelible.

4.2 ECONOMIC PROBLEMS

The main economic problems caused by the opium addiction are family economic

problem. Besides there are many other related problem occurring due to addiction in general and

addicts in particular. There is economic loss owing to opium abuse, which are collating based on

survey conducted, such as loss due to increase in expenditure on opium, tea, fire woods, and

opium including time spent and others. Generally, their expenditure and daily time spend on

opium parlors depends upon the level of addiction.

The major economic problems poses by opium addiction are:

1. It curtailed the family expenditure, which ascribed to family economic problem.

2. It degraded the socio economic status of the society.

3. It incurred lose of time and money.

4. It engenders poverty and penury.

5. It leads the addicts to sell off their properties to consume opium.

6. It causes drain of wealth by the exo-drug peddlers.

7. It causes mortgage of land and properties.

8. It costs lose of productivity, absenteeism, business and jobs.

9. Addicts put strain and stress on families.

10. It causes an increase in unemployables.

 4.3 HEALTH PROBLEMS

It is confirming that opium cause poor health status to users and problems for family and

society. Invariably, all the users have also assent that they contrite themselves of being addicted.

As per the findings, their condition of health is normal. Actually they believe that opium is the

drug of their good health, without it they become non-healthy. But they can be brought back to

full health and productivity, especially if they get help at an early stage. It is surprising to note

that, the addicts supplicate for detoxification in order to resume endues one‟s health and

personality.

Opium and its various constituents exert effects upon the body ranging from analgesia, or

insensitivity to pain, to narcosis, or depressed physiological activity leading to stupor. Opium

users describe experiencing a feeling of calm and well-being. Opium addicts in otherwise good

physical and mental health whose drug needs are met are thought to experience no debilitating

physiological effects from their addiction, although there is some evidence that immune function

is compromised. However, their preoccupation with the drug and its acquisition can lead to

malnutrition and general poor self-care and an increased risk of disease.

Another misuse of drugs is what certain sportsperson do to enhance their performance.

They misuse in sports to increase muscle strength and bulk to promote aggressiveness and as a

result increase athletic performance.

Many users reported the following adverse health consequences:

1. Chronic bronchitis

2. Withdrawal syndrome, depression, fatigue, aggressive behaviour

3. Breathing problem

4. Liver damage (cirrhosis)

5. Coughing on most days

 6. Chronic chest infection

7. TB, lung cancer, jaundice, dysentery

8. Insomnia (want of sleep), Kleptomania (stealing mania), and

9. It makes one lethargic.

5. INSTITUTIONAL INTERVENTION
The findings clearly indicate the need to create awareness about the harmful effects of

opiate abuse. Of increasing concern is the escalation of anti-social activities in various settings.

Considerably, these issues have been very well ventilated. And realizing, the need, institutional

intervention has been initiated to intercept the problems.

As per the survey, all are aware about the current policies regarding opiate abuse in the

areas. As people realized the harm effects of drug abuse and alcoholism, local youths, public

leaders, students and women associations are focusing on approaches to prevent and combat it.

And they committed to eradicate it completely from the society. Therein, social mobilization has

been intensified and punishment has been awarded to the users and drug peddlers.

Recently, a mission, „operation clean society‟ was launched to free Lohit and Changlang districts

from the drug abuses by holding de-addiction camp at the sensitive places. It is reported that,

almost 75% of local youths in Namsai, Bordumsa, Miao and Chowkham are prone to addiction.

At present, the situation is under stabilizing, which ensued after implementing intervention

strategies.

The addicts pass strictures on the public in which they stated that, pro tem enforcement of

laws and mitigation measures provided by them has indirectly caused increase of opium price. In

reality, it ascribed the lack of constant Endeavour on the part of service providers.
 According to the addicts, the main limitations of de-addiction programmes are:-

1. Inadequate after – care facilities

2. Inadequate training and skills of service providers

3. Low level of funding by government

4. Lack of trustworthy

5. Lack of medicine

6. Lack of constant efforts

7. Shortening duration of de-addiction camp

In spite of these barriers some social organization viz. Women Welfare Association

(Namsai); Women Welfare Association (Wakro); Mahila Mandal Samity (Chowkham);

ATKSSU; APPSU; Arunachal Pali Vidyapeeth are constantly tried to prophylactic the chronic

problem by providing various measures.

6. RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

Some recommendations presenting below:-

1. Improvement in their existing socio-economic conditions.

2. Providing general awareness amongst the people regarding government extension

programmes and providing avenues for marketing of goods.

3. Training, a major input must be there. Availability of medicines.

4. More and more evolvement of youth clubs, women‟s groups, health agencies,

implementing governmental programmes.

 5. Better utilization of lands to improve agriculture and provide a viable alternative to

opium by introducing other cash crops.

6. Vocational training with respect to different crafts to facilitate development.

7. De-addiction facilities could go a long way in controlling addiction.

It can be concluded that- This project neither intends to popularize nor to encourage

anything towards opium. Tai-Khampti is mainly inhabitant of Lohit and Changlang district of

Arunachal Pradesh. They profess Theravada Buddhist of Hinayana sects. Agriculture is the main

sources of income of the people. Therein, tea plantation is also seems to be flourishing. There

found the prevalence of opium in the society.

Opium and its various constituents exert effects upon the body ranging from analgesia, or

insensitivity to pain, to narcosis, or depressed physiological activity leading to stupor. Opium

users describe experiencing a feeling of calm and well-being. Opium addicts in otherwise good

physical and mental health whose drug needs are met are thought to experience no debilitating

physiological effects from their addiction, although there is some evidence that immune function

is compromised. However, their preoccupation with the drug and its acquisition can lead to

malnutrition and general poor self-care and an increased risk of disease.

Though opium is a medicine it is a dangerous drug as well. Undoubtedly, when taken in

mild dose under strict medical supervision it may be fit the taker; otherwise it creates a suicidal

effect. Moreover, at the pleasure of a single soul, a whole family and the society at large suffer.

Besides draining one‟s economy it makes a man less productive, thus making him a liability for

the nation.
 Youths are the predominant addicts in the societies. By knowing the gravity of the

problems of opium abuse, institutional intervention has been ensuring. The main problems

possessed are social, economic and health problems. However if the ongoing problem is not

controlled then it will steer the society towards destruction. Therefore, it needs to focus the

problem as a serious and great hamper in the development of the society. In addition, it has to

identify the constraints in meeting the needs o the people. Sufficient motivation, post camp

monitoring and public awareness may be initiated on priority basis to combat this heavenly

demon (opium).

REFERENCES

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/opium
2. https://www.unodc.org/documents/..../World_Drug_Report_2014_web.pdf
3. Survey of opium cultivation in Lohit district, Arunachal Pradesh: ILO,
UNDP, carried out by Moni Sarania and Sugata Das of CBN
4. Singkai, C.N. (2005): Study of addiction problem among the Khamptis of
Arunachal Pradesh, a case study of Lathao village, Lohit district, Arunachal
Pradesh
5. Nayak, Ramesh C (2008): Opium: The herb of Joy-II. The Eastern Mail,
page 3.
 GLOSSARY

Local terms: Meaning

1. Khao Rice
2. Nam Water
3. Sai Sand
4. Khamp Gold
5. Ti Place
6. Maan Village
7. Kyong Temple
8. Moung Society
9. Naa Paddy field
10. Chaufa Chief
11. Poi Festival
12. Kani Opium
13. La-oh Alcohol
14. Kania Addicts
15. Phaa Quilt
16. Yaa Medicine
17. Sila Morality
18. Metta Loving kindness
19. Dukkha Suffering
20. Anatta No souls
 -Questionnaire-
A case study of addiction problems in Namsai District

Part – A (General information)

Interview date……….
1. Name of village/town……………………………………………….
2. Sub-division……………..District……………..Circle…………….
3. Name of respondent………………………………………………..
4. Family background…………………………………………………

Sl. No. Name & relationship to Age Gender Occupation Education Monthly
father level average
income (in
Rs.)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15

5. Religion …………………………
6. Tribe …………………………….
7. Year of establishment of village/town ……………………………
8. Total population ST/SC ………………………………………….
 Part – B

1. Is opium abuse/addiction a problem in the village? Yes No

2. If yes, what type of problem results?

A Family economic problem Yes No

B Social problem Yes No
C Problems with children and/or young adults Yes No
D Physiological problems Yes No
E Others Yes No

3. Is opium used as a traditional medicine?

Yes No

4. Is opium used in religious ceremony? Yes No

5. Are drugs used socially in the society?

Yes No

6. If yes, what kind?

A Opium Yes No
B Heroine/Brown sugar Yes No
C Ganja/Bhang Yes No
D Alcohol Yes No
E Others Yes No

7. Opium use in the society?

A Traditional medicine Yes No

B Social intoxicant Yes No
C In religious ceremonies Yes No
D Part of life system Yes No
E Part of culture Yes No
F Legendary and the British Yes No
G Younger have started taking Yes No

8. Number of addicts
a) Village

b) Family
 9. From where opium procures?

A Locally product Yes No

B Self product Yes No
C Import Yes No

10. Are you aware of the current policies regarding opium abuse in Namsai district?
Yes No
11. How did you learn of the current opium policies?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

12. Are you support the NDPS Act 1985 according to which stern action should be taken
against those illicit poppy growers and the drug traffickers?

Yes No
13. Are you blaming society or lack of serious attention of the administration for increasing
number of drug addicts and illicit growing of poppy plant in Namsai District.

A Society Yes No
B Administration Yes No

14. What is to be done by the government, people and NGOs to stop these? Prioritize
response by entering 1, 2, 3.

Intensifying social mobilization

More numbers of dedication center should be established with trained doctors and
counselor
Punishment (NDPS Act 1985)
15. Barriers in implementing de-addiction programmes? Prioritize response by entering 1, 2,
3…..

Low level of funding by government

Inadequate training and skill of service provider
Many are treated in psychiatry wards and thus face stigma
Inadequate after care facilities

16. What is your preferred source of income? Prioritize response by entering 1, 2, 3……….
Farm animals
Rice/maize/ginger/mustard
Opium
Handicrafts
Labor
Other

17. What are the main problems with the village economy? Prioritize response by entering 1,
2, 3….

Poor production
Animal die
Illiteracy
Poor access to market
Market are not profitable
Drug abuse
Others

18. Price of opium (in Rs. Bak/tola) ……

19. Economic lose (in Rs.)
Monthly expenditure on opium
Monthly expenditure on tea
Monthly expenditure on sweet
Monthly expenditure on firewood and others

20. Daily average time spend on opium parlor…………………

21. Are you able to support your family?
Yes No
22. Do you want to detoxicate yourself?
Yes No
23. Why?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

24. Age of initiation into opium abuse………………..years.

25. Does any adverse health problem stemming from opium?
26. What?
Yes No

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
27. Do you have a feeling of guilt or remorse of being opium addicts?

Yes No
28. Has a relative or friend or a doctor or other health worker, been concerned about your
taking opium or suggested you cut down?
Yes No
29. Are you satisfied with the treatment facility provided?

Yes No
30. If so, why?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

31. Condition of health?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
31. Do you know that opium abuse may cost you and your family, health and you will set a
bad example for your children and coming generation?

Yes No
32. How you started taking opium?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

33. Your idea about drugs

Good Bad

34. If so, how?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

35. How do families normally do for pain medication (toothache, stomachache, etc)?
Prioritize response by entering 1, 2, 3….

Buy/get medicine from the nearest town

Buy/get medicine from the village health station
Buy/get medicine from the village herbalist
Do nothing
Don‟t know
Use opium
Others

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