IMPHAL, May 2 - Manipur�s Urban development Minister Thounaojam Shyamkumar Singh�on Tuesday�announced that the Horticulture Department is planning to promote organic farming and it will open an organic outlet (shop) at Sanjenthong in Imphal soon considering the potentials of organic products in the state.
In fact Manipur�s agricultural system is organic by default as the people of the state hardly use pesticides and other chemical fertilisers.
It may be recalled that the Prime Minister has taken a number of initiatives to promote traditional agricultural system, natural farming, vertical farming, soil and water conservation. The minister was attending a function as a chief guest at the 7th foundation day of the Lamphel Super Market Chaokhat.
He said that the government has a plan for a new market shed with modern facilities at Imphal. He also assured that women vendors would get full help from the government side. He, however, said that the state needs cold storage facilities for storing perishable products. Speaking on the illegal encroachment issue around the Lamphel area, he informed that people need to protect their land.
Demand for organic food products is growing rapidly across the globe. Despite vast scope, this region is yet to capture the international market.
The North-east is the only region in the country, which can grow organic products and can cater to this huge market.