The Agriculture Department, Government of Manipur, in collaboration with Kom Union, Manipur, organised a Farmer Training cum Seed Distribution Programme today at Thayong Village, Imphal East District. The event was attended by several dignitaries and marked a direct outreach effort to benefit farmers with free and subsidised agricultural inputs.
Chief Guest Joychandra Konthoujam, Chairman of the Justice Committee on Anglo-Manipur War, 1891 Martyrs & Freedom Fighters of Kangleipak, stressed the importance of recognising the long-standing presence and contributions of indigenous communities in the state. He observed that a time has come when a once-minor community is overtaking the majority, and if the trend continues without resistance, smaller communities may lose their identity. He urged every community to be vigilant and safeguard their existence and rights.
Konthoujam highlighted that Manipur, or Kangleipak, is a land historically settled by diverse communities. He called upon each group to play a proactive role in protecting the land and its resources through cooperation and unity, warning against internal divisions that could lead to marginalisation.
President of Kom Union, Serto Ahao Kom, in his remarks, pointed out that today’s initiative marks a shift towards economic independence for rural communities. He emphasised that agriculture must be transformed in response to current realities, noting that Manipur’s economy could become self-reliant if proper attention is given to farming and allied sectors.
He further stated that this program signifies a concrete step towards empowering farmers directly, by offering free and subsidised seeds and training under various schemes of the Agriculture Department. The direct benefit approach, he said, will ensure that farmers no longer remain passive recipients but active contributors to the economy.
The programme also saw the participation of local leaders and agriculture officials, including Rajkumar Ngamba (Agriculture Officer HQ), Kh. Nimaichand Singh (CDO, MOCVD-NER), and W. Subas Singh (Nodal Officer, NFSM), with M. Achung Kom, Chief of Thayong Village, as Special Guest of Honour.