Dr H Birkumar's "Kum-Pubi Leirang Kombirei" released
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 13 2025: "Kum-Pubi Leirang Kombirei", written by Professor Dr Huidrom Birkumar Singh, Chief Scientist, CSIR-North East Institute of Science and Technology, was released at the institute's premises at Lamphelpat today.

The book releasing programme was organised by Apunba Imagi Machasing (AIMS), Manipur, and CSIR-NEIST, Lamphelpat.

The event was attended by Dr Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, former Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Education, and other personalities including ex-MLA Yengkhom Surchandra Singh, retired Additional Director Health Services Dr S Manikanta Singh, JNIMS Associate Professor Dr N Kumatjit Singh, AIMS president Mayanglambam Khelendro Singh and director Dr Atom Sumi Singh.

Prof H Birkumar Singh reflected on the significance of the Kombirei flower, long cherished in Manipur for its beauty and symbolism, yet often misunderstood in the scientific community.

Through this book, he has endeavoured to correct past inaccuracies and has firmly established its identity as Iris laevigata Fisch.

Beyond taxonomy, the book captures the soul of Manipur, reflecting the beauty of its wetlands, the melodies of folk songs, the narratives of the elders, and the spiritual essence that the Kombirei flower embodies, Prof H Birkumar said.

Dr Rajkumar Ranjan Singh expressed that the book brings to life a symbol that resonates deeply with the heart of every Manipuri.

The book serves as a call to action for citizens, scholars, policymakers and future collaboration with Japan to work collectively towards its preservation, he said.

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