Manipur local products have received a fresh push from Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, who called for greater public support for indigenous goods and stronger Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Her appeal came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the role of local enterprises and women-led SHGs in his latest Mann Ki Baat address.
Kipgen said the message of “Vocal for Local” can help communities build sustainable livelihoods and strengthen grassroots participation. She also stressed the importance of supporting local products and empowering SHGs as part of wider economic development.
Nemcha Kipgen backs the Vocal for Local message
Kipgen said the Prime Minister’s focus on local products and SHGs offered an important reminder of the economic potential within communities. She linked the message to the need for stronger grassroots participation and sustainable livelihoods in Manipur.
The Deputy Chief Minister’s comments came on September 28, a day after the 138th episode of Mann Ki Baat. During the programme, Modi discussed how traditional products can create new opportunities for farmers, women and rural entrepreneurs.
Moreover, Kipgen’s remarks place greater attention on the role of local producers at a time when small enterprises and community-based groups remain important sources of rural income.
Manipur local products and SHGs
Self-Help Groups can help producers move beyond small-scale production by improving access to markets, finance, equipment and training. Women-led groups can also turn agricultural and traditional products into processed goods with higher market value.
The example cited by Modi came from Pratapgarh in Uttar Pradesh. The district has around 100 Amla processing units, with women associated with SHGs playing a significant role. The groups produce items such as Amla candy, preserves, juice, pickle and digestive products.
That example highlights how local products can create wider economic opportunities when producers receive support beyond basic cultivation or production.
Wider markets remain important
Market access remains a key part of the local-products model. Modi said the One District One Product initiative had helped connect producers with new markets and encouraged traditional products to reach consumers beyond their home areas.
For Manipur, stronger market links could help local producers present indigenous goods to consumers within the state and outside it. However, such growth depends on consistent production, quality, packaging, marketing and reliable distribution.
Earlier focus on Manipur products
The emphasis on local products also connects with Manipur’s earlier efforts to promote indigenous goods and expand their economic potential.
In 2022, Nemcha Kipgen, then the state’s Textiles, Commerce and Industries Minister, had highlighted products from Imphal East, including Chakhao or black rice, pineapple, handloom and handicraft products. Officials at the time said women’s SHGs would have an important role in developing the district as an export hub.
The state has also used trade exhibitions and similar platforms to showcase handloom, handicraft, garment and other locally made products. Such initiatives aim to connect producers with wider markets and encourage entrepreneurship.
Strengthening grassroots livelihoods
Kipgen’s latest appeal comes against the backdrop of continuing challenges in Manipur, where livelihoods and community stability remain important policy concerns.
In recent days, the Deputy Chief Minister has also been involved in humanitarian efforts. On September 22, she provided rice, dal and other essential commodities to 154 displaced Kuki-Zo villagers staying at the Phaitol Relief Camp in Tamenglong district.
Meanwhile, she has called for investigations into reported civilian killings and appealed for peace and restraint. These developments underline the wider challenges facing communities across the state.
Manipur local products need sustained support
The renewed focus on Manipur local products puts SHGs, artisans, farmers and small entrepreneurs at the centre of a broader livelihood conversation.
Furthermore, local purchasing can provide producers with a direct customer base, while stronger SHGs can help members share resources, skills and market opportunities. Better links between producers, government programmes and consumers could also help local enterprises expand gradually.
Overall, Kipgen’s appeal reflects the wider “Vocal for Local” push highlighted in the latest Mann Ki Baat. The challenge now is to convert that message into sustained market opportunities, stronger community enterprises and better incomes for producers across Manipur.
