Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh reviewed a comprehensive roadmap aimed at the state’s economic revival through integrated farming, underlining agriculture’s central role in sustainable growth. During the review meeting, the chief minister said Manipur must strengthen its rural economy by adopting farming models that combine crops, livestock, fisheries, and allied activities.
He emphasised that integrated farming for Manipur’s economic revival offers a practical solution to challenges such as low farm income, land constraints, and unemployment. Therefore, the government plans to align policies, training, and infrastructure to support farmers in adopting diversified and resilient farming systems.
The review comes at a time when the state seeks long-term economic stability alongside social harmony and employment generation.
Read More: Assam Orders Expulsion of Illegal Bangladeshi Immigrants
Integrated farming for Manipur’s economic revival takes centre stage
During the meeting, the Manipur CM said integrated farming for Manipur’s economic revival can transform agriculture from subsistence-based activity into a profitable enterprise. He explained that combining multiple farm components helps farmers reduce risk and maximise resource use.
For instance, crop residues can feed livestock, while animal waste can support organic manure and fish culture. As a result, farmers can generate multiple income streams from the same land.
The chief minister noted that Manipur’s diverse agro-climatic conditions favour integrated models. Therefore, tailored approaches for hill and valley regions will guide implementation.
Review of existing agricultural practices
The chief minister began the review by assessing current agricultural practices across districts. Officials presented data on cropping patterns, productivity, and farmer income levels.
He observed that many farmers depend heavily on single-crop systems. Consequently, income remains vulnerable to weather shocks and market fluctuations. Integrated farming, he said, can address this vulnerability effectively.
The review also identified gaps in extension services and access to modern techniques. Therefore, strengthening ground-level support emerged as a key priority.
Focus on farmer income and employment
A major objective of integrated farming for Manipur’s economic revival involves increasing farmer income. The chief minister said diversified farming creates year-round employment and reduces seasonal distress.
He highlighted that youth engagement in agriculture remains essential. By making farming profitable and technology-driven, the state can attract young people back to rural livelihoods.
Officials said integrated farming units can generate employment not only on farms but also in processing, marketing, and logistics. As a result, rural economies can experience multiplier effects.
Role of livestock, fisheries, and horticulture
The roadmap places strong emphasis on integrating livestock, fisheries, and horticulture with crop farming. The chief minister said these components complement each other and strengthen farm sustainability.
For example, fish farming in ponds can coexist with vegetable cultivation on embankments. Similarly, poultry and dairy units can add regular income.
By promoting such models, the government aims to optimise land and water use. Therefore, integrated farming for Manipur’s economic revival remains both resource-efficient and income-oriented.
Government support and policy alignment
The chief minister directed departments to align schemes and subsidies with integrated farming goals. He said fragmented implementation reduces impact and confuses beneficiaries.
Instead, the government plans to provide bundled support, including training, inputs, credit linkage, and market access. This coordinated approach, he said, will encourage wider adoption.
Officials also discussed convergence with central schemes. By leveraging existing programmes, Manipur can scale integrated farming without duplicating resources.
Capacity building and training initiatives
Training and capacity building emerged as critical components during the review. The chief minister said farmers need practical exposure to integrated farming models.
Therefore, the government plans to strengthen Krishi Vigyan Kendras and demonstration farms. These centres will showcase successful integrated units and provide hands-on training.
Moreover, extension officers will receive specialised training to guide farmers effectively. According to officials, knowledge transfer remains key to successful adoption.
Infrastructure and market linkage
The chief minister stressed that integrated farming for Manipur’s economic revival must connect farmers to markets. Without assured marketing channels, diversification may not deliver expected returns.
He directed departments to improve storage, processing, and transportation infrastructure. Cold chains, collection centres, and local processing units can reduce post-harvest losses.
Additionally, the government plans to support farmer producer organisations. These groups can negotiate better prices and access larger markets collectively.
Sustainability and environmental benefits
Integrated farming also supports environmental sustainability. The chief minister said reduced chemical input and efficient recycling of farm waste help protect soil and water.
Organic and natural farming practices, when combined with integrated models, can further enhance sustainability. Therefore, the roadmap encourages eco-friendly techniques.
Officials noted that sustainable agriculture aligns with long-term climate resilience. As climate variability increases, integrated systems offer adaptive advantages.
District-specific implementation strategy
Recognising Manipur’s diversity, the chief minister called for district-specific strategies. Hill districts may focus more on horticulture, livestock, and agroforestry, while valley areas can integrate crops with fisheries and dairy.
He said decentralised planning ensures relevance and effectiveness. Therefore, district administrations will prepare customised action plans.
Local conditions, resources, and farmer preferences will guide implementation, ensuring community ownership.
Monitoring and accountability
To ensure progress, the chief minister emphasised regular monitoring. He directed departments to set measurable targets and timelines.
Periodic reviews will assess adoption rates, income impact, and challenges. Based on feedback, the government will refine strategies.
Accountability, he said, remains essential to convert policy intent into tangible outcomes.
Public response and expert views
Agriculture experts welcomed the focus on integrated farming for Manipur’s economic revival. They said such models align with global best practices in sustainable agriculture.
Farmer representatives also expressed optimism. Many said integrated farming could stabilise income and reduce dependence on external inputs.
However, they stressed the need for consistent support and timely delivery of benefits.
Long-term vision for Manipur’s economy
The chief minister concluded the review by placing integrated farming within Manipur’s broader economic vision. He said agriculture must act as a foundation for rural prosperity and social stability.
By strengthening farming systems, the state can reduce poverty, generate employment, and support peace-building efforts. Therefore, economic revival and social harmony must progress together.
Conclusion
The review of the roadmap for integrated farming for Manipur’s economic revival marks a strategic shift toward sustainable, inclusive growth. By combining crops, livestock, fisheries, and allied activities, the government aims to strengthen farmer income and rural employment.
With policy alignment, training, infrastructure support, and market linkage, integrated farming can become a powerful engine of economic revival. As Manipur moves forward, effective implementation and farmer participation will determine whether this vision translates into lasting change across the state.