Manipur’s GI-tagged Chak-Hao black scented rice and Chak-Hao Angouba white scented rice attracted attention at the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 in New Delhi. A live cooking demonstration featured both indigenous rice varieties in Korean-style kimbap, highlighting their potential for modern cuisine and new markets. The three-day conference runs from October 23 to 25 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan.
The Department of Agriculture, Government of Manipur, is participating under the leadership of Agriculture Director Peter Salam, alongside entrepreneurs and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). The initiative aims to promote Manipur’s traditional rice varieties, encourage product innovation and create wider commercial opportunities for farmers and rural businesses.
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Key Facts About Manipur’s Chak-Hao Rice Showcase
- Event: Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026
- Location: Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
- Dates: October 23–25, 2026
- Featured products: Chak-Hao black scented rice and Chak-Hao Angouba white scented rice
- Demonstration: Korean-style kimbap preparation
- Manipur delegation: Department of Agriculture, led by Director Peter Salam, with entrepreneurs and FPOs
- Organiser: Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF)
Manipur’s Indigenous Rice Enters Contemporary Cuisine
During the demonstration, a chef prepared Korean-style kimbap using both varieties of Manipur’s scented rice. Their naturally sticky texture makes them suitable for dishes such as kimbap and Japanese sushi rolls.
The demonstration introduced visitors to new ways of using traditional rice varieties. It also highlighted how local agricultural products can reach consumers through innovative recipes and value-added food products.
Chak-Hao is known for its distinctive colour and aroma. The GI-tagged black rice holds an important place in Manipur’s agricultural heritage. Chak-Hao Angouba, the white scented variety, adds to the diversity of the state’s traditional rice products.
By presenting these varieties in a contemporary culinary setting, Manipur’s delegation highlighted their potential beyond conventional rice-based meals.
BIRC 2026 Opens New Market Opportunities
The Agriculture Department’s participation aims to connect Manipur’s agricultural produce with consumers and businesses in Delhi and other urban markets.
Product diversification can help farmers and entrepreneurs explore new customer segments. For example, traditional rice varieties could support the development of ready-to-eat meals, specialty food products and other innovative offerings.
Stronger market connections could also help Farmer Producer Organisations improve product visibility and reach larger buyers. However, sustained growth will depend on factors such as production capacity, quality standards, packaging, pricing and reliable distribution.
The conference provides a platform for stakeholders across the rice value chain to discuss trade, innovation, value addition and domestic and international market opportunities.
Why Manipur’s Rice Heritage Matters to the Northeast
Agriculture remains an important source of livelihood across Manipur and the wider Northeast. Indigenous crops such as Chak-Hao represent both the region’s cultural heritage and its potential for agricultural entrepreneurship.
Promoting these products at national events can help build wider awareness of the Northeast’s distinctive agricultural produce. It can also encourage local businesses to develop new products while preserving the identity and qualities of traditional crops.
Manipur’s participation at BIRC 2026 reflects an effort to connect its agricultural heritage with changing consumer preferences. By combining traditional rice varieties with contemporary food ideas, the state aims to create new possibilities for farmers, FPOs and rural entrepreneurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Chak-Hao rice?
Chak-Hao is a traditional black scented rice variety from Manipur. It is known for its distinctive colour and aroma and has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
2. What is Chak-Hao Angouba?
Chak-Hao Angouba is a traditional white scented rice variety from Manipur. It was also featured in the live cooking demonstration at BIRC 2026.
3. What was demonstrated at the conference?
A chef prepared Korean-style kimbap using Chak-Hao black rice and Chak-Hao Angouba white rice.
4. When and where is BIRC 2026 taking place?
The three-day conference is taking place from October 23 to 25, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, in New Delhi.
5. How could the showcase benefit Manipur’s farmers?
The initiative could improve product awareness, encourage value-added food production and help farmers and FPOs explore wider markets.
Manipur’s showcase at BIRC 2026 highlights how indigenous rice varieties can connect the Northeast’s agricultural traditions with contemporary cuisine and emerging commercial opportunities.
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