Scientist advocates cross-breeding to save local Yongchak
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, November 08 2023:
Scientist Dr Rajkumar Kishor, who recently tasted success in cultivating Thailand variety of Yongchak tree in the state, has cautioned that the popular tree bean, locally known as Yongchak, is on the brink of extinction.
Dr Kishor said the key to preserving the Manipuri food source lies in cross-breeding with more resilient varieties.
He made the statement while interacting with students of Mega Manipur School, Yaralpat, where he was honoured for his discovery of a new flowering plant species named Gingiber Kangleipakense.
While pointing out that the local Yongchak variety is facing extinction due to adverse effects of climate change, he expressed belief that introducing the Thailand variety to the region could be a crucial step in saving the local variety.
During his interaction with the students, Dr RK Kishor stressed the importance of discovering and studying new varieties of flora and fauna to better understand their roles in maintaining the delicate ecological balance.
The Mega Manipur School celebrated Dr Kishor's achievements with a warm reception.
Retired IAS officer and former chairman of the school Dr RK Nimai congratulated Dr Kishor for his remarkable contributions in the field of orchid research.
Dr RK Nimai also addressed the school students, encouraging them to nurture a scientific temperament and exhorting them to be inquisitive and never accept information at face value, while explaining that asking questions, even seemingly simple ones, is essential for gaining a deeper understanding of the world.
The reception cum interaction function was also attended by school principal Aton Lunghar, Mega Manipur Society chairman T Sanjaoba and secretary Yumnam Rupachandra.