The second edition Maroi Nakuppi Kumei festival, an annual festival of a popular local chive, which resembles Asian or Chinese chives, is underway at Moirangkampu Sajeb village, 10 km east of Imphal.
Co-convenor Soubam Surjit of the organizing committee said Moirangkampu Sajeb village and its neighbouring villages in Imphal East district have been supplying ‘Maroi Nakuppi’ (chives) in the Imphal market.
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The Nakuppi producing villages are Moirangkampu Sajeb, Moirangkampu, Angom Leikai, Kangla Sagomsang, Kangla Siphai, all in Imphal East district.
The villagers of these Nakuppi producing villages have been engaged in ‘Maroi Nakuppi’ cultivation for the last 17-18 years.
The villagers hardly bought onion when the price of this kitchen staple went up to Rs 130 across the country including the northeastern states as they’ve ‘Maroi Nakuppi’ as the alternative.
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The festival, organised by Progressive Farmers Foundation (PFF), was inaugurated by horticulture and soil conservation minister Th Shyamkumar on Friday.
During the festival, minister Shyamkumar and local (Khurai) MLA L Susindro inspected the 36 vegetable stalls showcasing and selling local chives and other seasonal vegetables.
During the inaugural function, minister Shyamkumar, who also holds the forest and environment portfolio, appreciated the initiative taken up by organising committee members to spread awareness about the importance of ‘Maroi Nakuppi’ among the local people.
The spice plant is considered to be a favourite ingredient for many Manipuri cuisines.
Local MLA Susindro also spoke on the occasion.