Need to promote Yongchak tree stressed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 16 2026: A one-day consultative meeting to discuss conservation of Yongchak (Tree Bean) in the face of declining number of these trees was held today at the Conference Hall of the Deputy Chief Minister's Office at Civil Secretariat Complex, Imphal.

Experts from the Manipur Forest Department, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Imphal, Dhanamanjuri University, Central Agricultural University, Lamphelpat and Manipur University took part in the meeting in the presence of Losii Dikho, Deputy Chief Minister and Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister.

At the event, Professor Robert Thangjam, Department of Botany, Manipur University and A Ratankumar, Senior Scientist (Plant Pathology), ICAR highlighted the reasons behind the shrinking number of Yongchak trees in Manipur and other North Eastern citing common diseases and insect infestations.

Professor Ng Iboyaima, CAU spoke about the nutritious value of Tree Beans and how people earn a livelihood by making different food items from them.

After listening to the lectures delivered by the experts, Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho assured to hold discussions over organising a Yongchak Festival in April as a positive step towards its conservation.

He also emphasized the need for public cooperation in order to save Yongchak trees and help boost the economy.

Stating that the Government will help conduct international seminars and other related events, the Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister further said he will try to initiate a "Yongchak Mission" to conserve Tree Beans.

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