UKHRUL: The 13th Sirarakhong Hathei Phanit, held in Ukhrul’s Sirarakhong village, successfully concluded on Friday, drawing visitors from across Manipur. Organised by the Sirarakhong Hathei Promotion Committee (SHPC) under the aegis of the Sirarakhong Village Assembly, the two-day festival celebrated the unique Hathei (chilli), which is endemic to Sirarakhong village.
Sirarakhong Hathei, known for its distinct taste and vibrant red color, has become a crucial source of income for the village’s 300 households, generating significant revenue to support their livelihoods. According to locals, the Hathei can grow up to 13 inches in length and produce as many as 350 chilies per plant. Rich in vitamin C, calcium, and protein, it is highly sought after.
Speaking to EastMojo, Ezra Zimik, Secretary of SHPC, shared that local farmers sold a total of 2,310 kg of Hathei during the festival, generating an income of ₹2,31,000. However, the total production of this year’s Hathei is estimated to be between 25,000 and 30,000 kg, he said.
Nine stalls were set up for the sale of Sirarakhong Hathei during the two-day event. Dried chilies were sold at ₹1,000 per kg, while fresh chilies were priced at ₹200 per kg. Additionally, dried chili powder, available in 100-gram packets, was sold for ₹130.
MLA Ram Muivah, who served as the chief guest at the festival’s closing ceremony, praised the cultivation of Sirarakhong Hathei as a God-given blessing for the village. He urged farmers to maintain their dedication to its cultivation, which has become a source of pride for the entire community. Muivah also encouraged the adoption of scientific and systematic farming methods to scale up production while ensuring sustainability and maintaining organic practices.
Asher Ramsan, General Manager (Retd.) of Palynology at ONGC and advisor to the SHPC, emphasized the importance of Sirarakhong Hathei as a valuable gift from the Tangkhul community. He highlighted the chili’s significance in the village’s identity and future, calling for the transformation of Sirarakhong into a Hathei-producing hub not only in Manipur but across India and beyond.
The indigenous and organic Sirarakhong Hathei is typically harvested in August and September. However, locals noted that the growing season for this endemic chili can extend until December.
It is worth mentioning that Sirarakhong village earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli in June 2024, recognizing its uniqueness as an indigenous crop.
With the success of this year’s Hathei Phanit, locals have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting and preserving the indigenous crop while expanding production to meet market demands through sustainable farming practices. The villagers have also called on all stakeholders and concerned departments to collaborate in preserving the unique features of this farming practice and ensuring its sustainability.
Also Read: Peace, what peace? Are ceasefire deals with Naga groups fueling ‘unlawful activities’?