The Aryavarth Express
Imphal (Manipur): Signs of recovery are emerging in Manipur as tourism and agriculture begin to revive with the gradual return of normalcy after years of disruption. Tourists were seen enjoying boat rides at Loktak Lake, Northeast India’s largest freshwater lake, known for its distinctive phumdis—floating islands formed from vegetation, soil and organic matter.
Visuals from the lake showed visitors calmly seated in boats, soaking in the scenic beauty, reflecting renewed confidence among tourists and locals alike.
Alongside tourism, agriculture is also witnessing a resurgence. In Kumbi Terakha village of Bishnupur district, progressive vegetable farmer Ningthoujam Inaocha has become a symbol of resilience, having successfully rebuilt his livelihood after facing severe setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic and the prolonged unrest in the state.
Farming on one lourak of land, Inaocha cultivates cabbage (Green Hero variety), cauliflower, broccoli (Queen Magic variety) and mustard, including a traditional local mustard variety he has grown for years. This season, he planted nearly 18,000 saplings, including over 3,000 mustard plants, and recently harvested around 100 bundles of mustard in a single day.
Recalling the challenges of the past, Inaocha said the pandemic left him unable to sell his produce, while violence further disrupted farming activities until last year. “This year, I feel hopeful that I can sell my produce properly,” he said.
He earns between Rs 7–8 lakh per season and around Rs 20 lakh annually from vegetable farming alone, excluding income from paddy cultivation. Emphasising the importance of modern techniques, he said scientific farming practices could significantly boost production and help Manipur move towards financial self-reliance.
“Organic farming gives comparatively lower yield, but the profits are more assured,” he noted.
Inaocha’s farm has also created employment opportunities for local residents. Farm worker Yumnam Ibemcha said several people are engaged in activities such as planting, field cleaning and maintenance. With improving conditions and increasing agricultural activity, farmers across Manipur are hopeful that peace and productivity will restore livelihoods in the state’s rural areas.
