Chilli fest begins at Ukhrul
Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Imphal, August 28 2015 :
An annual chilli festival, named as Hathei Phanit, was started from today at Sirarakhong village of Ukhrul district.
This festival celebrates the uniqueness of Sirarakhong Chilli, which is found only in this village, with an objective to popularise this variety to the rest of the state and outside.
The festival is a two-day event and this year is the sixth edition of the festival.
Ukhrul Deputy Commissioner Hrisheekesh Modak (IAS) and District Officer of Horticulture and Soil Conservation L Nandababu attended the formal inaugural function as the chief guest and guest of honour respectively.
Nine self-help groups cultivating Sirarakhong chillies exhibited their produces at the stalls.
Hrisheekesh Modak said, "All must come together to popularise this chilli variety to the rest of the world.
I assure every possible side from my side to assist the farmers and to provide technical knowhow and expert help to them." District Horticulture Officer spoke on the need to make the chilli plants insect and pest free for greater productivity.
Farmers taking part in the festival expressed disappointment as a large portion of their chilli cultivation this year has been severely affected by a disease.
The farmers appealed possible help and remedial measures from authorities concerned.