MTIFC urges Manipur Govt to prioritize hill farmers for balanced development and food security
Source: The Sangai Express

Ukhrul, July 08 2025: The Manipur Tribal Indigenous Fanners' Committee (MTIFC) has called upon the State Government to urgently intervene and provide sustained support for fanners in the hill districts of Manipur.

The committee stressed the need for balanced development, highlighting the daily struggles faced by rural populations, many of whom depend solely on agriculture and allied activities for their livelihood.

MTIFC Publicity Secretary Benjamin Mahung in a release stated, "Living in the hills with zero support from the Government has pushed us into a state of despair.

The continuing neglect and lack of basic agricultural infrastructure have made life unbearable for many" .

The committee noted that, despite being the backbone of Manipur's agrarian economy, farmers in the hill regions have been excluded from essential Government schemes.

Mahung highlighted that vital sectors like the minor irrigation, inter village roads (IVR), and village link roads remain grossly underdeveloped, severely limiting access to markets and resources.

He also criticized the Government's meager fertilizer support-reportedly just 5%, mostly limited to cabbage cultivation in foothill areas despite the region's rich virgin soil being ideal for diverse crops.

"Water is essential for agriculture and horticulture, yet even basic irrigation support is missing," Mahung added.

MTIFC further emphasized the link between organic farming and the health of the people and athletes in the State.

With Manipur being recognized as India's 'Sports Powerhouse' and with the establishment of the National Sports University in Imphal, Mahung questioned how athletes can be expected to excel when they rely on chemically laced, imported food.

"If our food isn't clean and natural, how can our athletes remain healthy and perform at their best? We must shift focus to natural and organic farming to ensure a sustainable diet for our sportspersons," he stressed.

Drawing attention to the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), Mahung urged the Manipur Government to align its FY 2025-26 planning with this national priority by supporting local farmers with modem scientific tools, market access, and exposure trips.

He concluded by urging all elected MLAs to rise above party lines and support farmer welfare for the holistic growth of both hill and valley regions.

"Just like two sides of a coin, the hill and valley must grow together.

Only then will Manipur truly develop", he affirmed.

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