A new book titled “Crop Diseases of Manipur: Identification and Management-I” was released at the South Asian Institute of Rural and Agricultural Management (SAIRAM), Imphal, on February 2, 2026. The publication focuses on region-specific crop disease problems and offers practical management strategies tailored to the farming conditions of Manipur.
The book has been authored by Dr. Nongthombam Olivia Devi, Dr. W. Tampakleima Chanu, Dr. Konjengbam Sarda Devi, and Prof. H. S. Shekhar Sharma. It compiles field observations, laboratory studies, and locally relevant disease management practices, making it a valuable resource for students, researchers, extension workers, and farmers.
Prof. P. Kumar Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Manipur International University, formally released the book as Chief Guest, while Dr. Ph. Ibomcha Sharma, Agricultural Officer at SAIRAM, lauded the authors for documenting Manipur-specific crop disease issues and practical solutions. Presiding over the programme, Prof. H. S. Shekhar Sharma encouraged further academic initiatives addressing local agricultural challenges.
Dr. Nongthombam Olivia Devi noted that the book is the first of a planned two-volume series and is designed as a handbook with simple language, clear photographs, and concise symptom descriptions, making it accessible to farmers and general readers alongside academic audiences.