Imphal: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) for the North Eastern Hill (NEH) Region, Manipur Centre, presented an overview of its ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity in the region.
A delegation from ICAR, Imphal, led by S. Basanta Singh, Head of the Regional Centre, met the Manipur Chief Minister at the Secretariat on Tuesday to discuss these initiatives.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister was informed that, with a strong network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across all districts, ICAR continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening the agricultural ecosystem.
This includes promoting improved farming techniques, boosting rice productivity, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and addressing region-specific challenges through research and capacity building.
In response, the Chief Minister wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) account, “It was a productive meeting, and the Government of Manipur remains committed to working in close collaboration with ICAR to ensure food security, empower our farmers, and meet the growing demands of our population.”
Officials reported that during the meeting, the Chief Minister was also informed about the latest developments of ICAR as of early 2026.
In March 2026, ICAR-Lamphel completed an eight-day capacity-building program on “Recent Advances in Pulse Production Technologies” to strengthen food security, following a January 2026 training on “Pulse Production Technologies for Rice Fallow.”
The centre has developed and promoted high-yielding rice varieties, including RC Maniphou-7, 10, 12, and 13, which have demonstrated yields ranging from 5.6 to 6.8 t/ha in trials.
The centre has also launched RC-Manichakhao-1, a high-yielding, semi-dwarf, and disease-resistant black rice variety aimed at boosting farmer income while preserving local culture.
In March 2026, ICAR-Lamphel distributed essential inputs, including piglets, fish fingerlings, ducklings, and chicks, to local farmers.
Research focus has been placed on high-value, low-volume crops, with the promotion of hybrids for capsicum, tomato, and parthenocarpic cucumber.
The centre is actively promoting millet cultivation as a “smart food” to improve nutrition and address climate change, with particular emphasis on local adaptability.