Disease-resistant paddy varieties introduced
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 29 2025: Five new high-yielding and multiple disease-resistant paddy varieties developed by Professor Naorem Iboton, former Dean of the College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, were introduced in a function held at the Farmer Convention Centre of the Green House Foundation in Kwakeithel on Thursday.

The new varieties aimed at revitalising rice cultivation in Manipur were launched in connection with a one-day workshop on Kharif rice production.

The five varieties were named after Meetei Gods and Goddesses, namely Numit Phou, Ningthou Phou, Imoinu Phou, Panthoibi Phou and Laisana Phou.

These climate-resilient varieties promise to transform farming by reducing costs and increasing yields.

Developed over eight years of field trials by Dr Naorem Iboton, these new varieties are low-maintenance, early-maturing (115-120 days) and require less water and nitrogenous fertilisers.

Speaking at the launch event Dr N Iboton noted that farmers in the state often waste significant amount of urea while growing paddy rice due to incorrect timing and placement of application.

He also pointed out that a large quantity of paddy seeds is wasted during the initial planting stage, and explained that paddy seeds do not require urea fertiliser for germination, as the nutrients within the seeds are sufficient for sprouting.

Applying urea at this stage only promotes the growth of unwanted weeds, cautioned Dr Iboton and explained that the most appropriate time to apply urea fertiliser is when the seedlings are about 15 days old.

He further informed that the new varieties of paddy offer hope for Manipur's farmers, promising higher yields, lower costs, and resilience to climate challenges, potentially reversing the decline in rice cultivation.

Presided over by the Green Foundation chairman Kh Rajendra, the function was also attended by CAU Department of Agronomy professor L Nabachandra, Department of Entomology professor Kh Ibohal, Department of Plant Pathology retired professor RK Tombisana and national awardee P Devakanta as guests of honour.

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