Imphal: The Sirarakhong community of Ukhrul district just landed the Plant Genome Saviour Community Award 2024-25. The Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Authority handed out the hardware to honor a century of work. Locals have spent generations guarding the indigenous Sirarakhong Hathei chilli, a rare crop famous for its antioxidant properties and sharp aroma.
Dr Pramod Kumar Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, served as chief guest. He presented the honor on November 12, 2026, at the Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Auditorium in New Delhi. Officials from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, ICAR, and the National Biodiversity Authority stood on stage as witnesses. The event marked the 22nd Foundation Day for the authority.
Dr Soibam Khogen, head of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Ukhrul, facilitated the effort. He pushed for the community to get this recognition after years of training and support. The award spotlights traditional farming knowledge. It aims to protect local crops while building better markets for the harvest. Regarding the recognition, officials noted the award "places the community’s traditional conservation efforts on the national stage."
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