Manipur won the Global Excellence Award in the GI rice category at BIRC 2026 in New Delhi for showcasing Chak-Hao, Angouba and innovative rice-based products.
Imphal, Oct. 25: Manipur has received the Global Excellence Award in the GI rice category at the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 in New Delhi, recognising the state's presentation of indigenous rice varieties and innovations in value-added products made from Chak-Hao, the state's GI-tagged black scented rice.
The award was presented on the second day of the three-day conference at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan. The event concluded on October 25.
The Department of Agriculture, Government of Manipur, participated in the conference under the leadership of Director of Agriculture Peter Salam, along with MOVCDNER Nodal Officer Kh. Nimaichand Singh, departmental officials, entrepreneurs and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) from the state.
Manipur's presentation featured its indigenous scented rice varieties, including GI-tagged Chak-Hao, also known as black scented rice, and Chak-Hao Angouba, or white scented rice. The display also showcased a range of processed products developed using Chak-Hao.
These included instant Chak-Hao kheer, Chak-Hao cookies, Chak-Hao gulla and Chak-Hao bhujia, demonstrating efforts to diversify the uses of the traditional rice variety beyond conventional preparations.
Chak-Hao products draw visitors
A key attraction at Manipur's stall was a live culinary demonstration featuring Korean-style kimbaps and Japanese sushi rolls prepared using Chak-Hao Amuba and Chak-Hao Angouba.
Visitors were also offered free samples of Chak-Hao kheer during the exhibition. According to the event information provided by the department, the tasting attracted a strong response from attendees.
The presentation sought to highlight the potential of Manipur's indigenous rice varieties in new food products and markets. By combining traditional agricultural produce with contemporary culinary applications, the state aimed to draw attention to opportunities for product development and commercial expansion.
Chak-Hao is known for its distinctive colour and aroma, while Angouba represents another of Manipur's traditional scented rice varieties. Their presentation at the conference offered an opportunity to introduce these products to buyers, businesses and consumers beyond the state.
Focus on market access for farmers and entrepreneurs
The department's participation also aimed to explore market opportunities in Delhi and other urban centres, while strengthening links between farmers, FPOs, entrepreneurs and potential buyers.
Value addition can create opportunities for agricultural producers by allowing traditional crops to reach consumers in different forms. Products such as packaged desserts, snacks and other ready-to-eat foods may help expand the commercial uses of indigenous rice, provided producers can develop suitable processing, packaging and distribution channels.
The conference provided a national platform for Manipur's agricultural team and participating producers to present their products and explore possible business connections.
The award recognises Manipur's presentation in the GI rice category, while the display of Chak-Hao and Chak-Hao Angouba highlighted the state's efforts to promote indigenous rice varieties through product innovation and market development.
For the participating farmers, FPOs and entrepreneurs, the initiative was intended to create greater visibility for Manipur's rice-based products and support efforts to reach markets outside the state.
