Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, December 20:
A one-day awareness-cum-interaction programme on oilseed production in Manipur, under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)–Indian Institute of Oilseed Research (IIOR), Hyderabad, was held on Friday at the Am Bross Hotel Conference Hall, Hungpung. The programme aimed at strengthening scientific farming practices and promoting quality oilseed cultivation among hill farmers of Ukhrul and Kamjong districts.
The event covered three Assembly Constituencies—Phungyar (43 AC), Ukhrul (44 AC), and Chingai (45 AC). During the programme, former Phungyar MLA candidate Hopingson A. Shimray distributed more than 20 varieties of high-quality oilseed and vegetable seeds along with livestock, including chickens.
Altogether, 60 farmers from the three Assembly Constituencies benefited from the distribution, which included both agricultural inputs and livestock support to encourage diversified and sustainable farming practices.
The programme was jointly organised by the Directorate of Extension Education, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, and 7 Sisters Foundation, in collaboration with Hopingson A. Shimray and Hashokmi Kamkara, an active BJP worker.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sorei, Scientist from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), highlighted the importance of organic vegetable cultivation and explained scientific methods of planting vegetables according to their varieties and seasonal requirements. He also shared practical insights on improving productivity and maintaining soil health. Dr. Sorei expressed his appreciation to Hopingson, stating that it was rare to see a political leader taking such personal initiative to support farmers at the grassroots level.
In his address, Hopingson A. Shimray said that the hill people are predominantly farmers and supporting them with quality seeds and scientific knowledge is crucial for community development. He termed the distribution to farmers from Chingai, Phungyar, and Ukhrul as a significant step towards strengthening rural livelihoods.
He further emphasized that farmers are the backbone of both the community and the nation, and empowering them through direct interaction with scientists is a privilege. Hopingson noted that several government schemes exist to support farmers and assured that more assistance would follow if farmers actively participate and show enthusiasm.
Expressing concern over the misuse of forest resources due to lack of awareness, he stressed the need to focus on scientific farming to ensure quality food production. He added that since many farmers cannot travel to Imphal to access such benefits, the initiative was taken to deliver support at their doorstep, in collaboration with ICAR and local KVKs.