Manipur launches MASOCA at State Krishi Mela 2026 as CM Khemchand Singh advocates balanced fertilizer use and expansion of organic farming.
Imphal, June 6: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Saturday called for a gradual reduction in the use of chemical fertilizers and greater adoption of organic and natural farming practices while attending the State Krishi Mela 2026 at the City Convention Centre in Imphal.
The event, organised under the theme “Balanced Use of Fertilizer”, focused on promoting healthy soil management and sustainable agricultural practices. On arrival, the Chief Minister inspected stalls showcasing agricultural and horticultural products displayed as part of the programme.
Addressing farmers, officials and stakeholders, Khemchand Singh said that greater emphasis should be placed on organic fertilizers in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While acknowledging that chemical fertilizers cannot be completely discontinued immediately, he stressed the need to gradually reduce dependence on them because of their adverse impact on human health and the environment.
Referring to Sikkim’s transition to organic farming, he said the Himalayan state became the country’s first fully organic farming state through cooperation between the government and the people, and noted that similar efforts could help strengthen sustainable agriculture elsewhere.
The Chief Minister said the Agriculture Department is working towards earmarking around 400 hectares of agricultural land for the production of organic products. He also appealed to farmers to adopt double-cropping and triple-cropping practices to improve productivity, increase overall output and enhance farm income.
He further stated that the availability and distribution of urea fertilizer would be monitored and assured that any lapses in the distribution system would be addressed, including through his personal intervention if required.
During the programme, the Chief Minister formally launched the Manipur Seed and Organic Certification Agency (MASOCA), which is expected to support the production and certification of quality seeds in the state. The launch marks a significant addition to the Agriculture Department’s efforts to strengthen seed quality assurance and certification mechanisms.
A Memorandum of Agreement was also signed between the Department of Agriculture and the Central Agricultural University (CAU) for Natural Farming Certification. The agreement aims to strengthen certification processes and encourage wider adoption of natural farming practices.
The programme also featured the launch of a magazine titled “Farmers’ Success Stories”, documenting the experiences and achievements of 53 farmers from different parts of the state. Natural Farming Scope Certificates were distributed and a range of natural farming products was officially launched.
Vice Chancellor of Central Agricultural University Dr. Anupam Mishra praised the selection of the theme, stating that balanced fertilizer use is important for maintaining soil fertility, reducing cultivation costs and ensuring sustainable crop production. Healthy soil, he said, remains the foundation of farmers’ prosperity.
Dr. Asem Sundari Devi, Co-founder and Director of Green Biotech Eco Solutions Pvt. Ltd., shared experiences on the use of biofertilizers as an alternative to chemical fertilizers.
As part of the first phase of the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM), agricultural machinery worth Rs. 432.13 lakh was distributed to 189 beneficiaries. The equipment included tractors, power tillers, rice mills, solar dryers, seeders, reapers, threshers and other farm machinery intended to improve agricultural efficiency and mechanisation.
The Chief Minister also felicitated recipients of the State-Level Best Farmers Awards. Under the Best Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) District Awards, Imphal East secured first place, followed by Imphal West. Chandel and Churachandpur districts jointly received the third prize.
The programme was attended by legislators, senior government officials, scientists, entrepreneurs and farmers from across the state.
