MOIRANGKAMPU, Jan 11 - The second edition of the Maroi Nakuppi Kumei, a three-day festival of Chinese chives, began at Moirangkampu Sajeb village in Imphal East district on Friday. It was inaugurated by Horticulture and Soil Conservation Minister Th Shyamkumar, who was the chief guest of the function. The festival is being organised by the Progressive Farmers Foundation (PFF).
Shyamkumar and local (Khurai) MLA L Susindro visited 36 stalls, showcasing and selling Chinese chives products.
Speaking at the programme, the minister appreciated the initiative taken up by the organising committee to spread awareness about the importance of maroi nakuppi (Chinese chives) among the local people as the vegetable is a favourite ingredient in many Manipuri cuisines.
Stating that farmers have the habit of deserting their fields after harvesting, the minister assured that two green houses would be set up and a small business centre would be established at the village. He also appealed to the farmers to promote organic farming and attend training programmes conducted by different departments of the State Government. The local MLA and senior functionaries of the PFF and organising committee also spoke on the occasion. Delicious Manipuri dishes such as maroi thongba and maroi bora were also made available at the event.
Co-convener of the organising committee S Surjit said Moirangkampu Sajeb and three nearby villages in Imphal East district have been supplying Chinese chives to Imphal round the year.
