Agriculture in Manipur

Agriculture in Manipur is one of the principal sources of revenue in the state and plays a pioneering role in strengthening the state's fiscal backbone. Manipur, one of the elite members of the seven sisters whose agglomeration forms northeastern India, is striving to boost its economy.

Although, the net cropped area accounts for about 9.41% of the state's total area, agriculture is the main mean of economic subsistence of over 76% of the workforce. It is interesting to note that 52% of the total agricultural area lies in the valley and is responsible for the livelihood of more than half the populace of Manipur valley.

Paddy is the principal crop that is cultivated. The quintessential Manipuri Rice is famed all over the country for its sweet flavor and aromatic fragrance. This sweet rice can be consumed wholly on its own, without any additional gravy or curry. Apart from rice, wheat, maize and pulses, fruits and vegetables are also grown aplenty.

Punghul and relocating and transplanting seeds are the primary modes of cultivation that are practiced in the state. Jhum and terrace cultivation is extensively practiced in the hilly areas. The land is usually cleared during the months of January and February and couple months later, during the summer months of April, May and June the seeds are planted. Finally harvesting commences in October and culminates in early December. The soil and climatic conditions are also conducive to the growth of all sorts of crops.