Manipur: The Parkia Speciosa tree-bean variety, originally found in Thailand, is thriving in Manipur. Dr Kishore, the Managing Director of Kwaklei Khongummelei Orchids Private Limited, expressed hope that this variety, known for its flowering from April and yielding mature tree beans by August and October, will be a boon for tree-bean (Yongchak) lovers in the state.
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Dr Kishore collected seeds of Parkia Speciosa in 2015-16 and produced around 6,000 saplings, which were distributed to people in Manipur. This variety has adapted well to climate change observed in the state over the past few years. He highlighted the advantages of the Thailand variety, which is rich in protein and less susceptible to infestations compared to local varieties. He also suggested that other varieties from Bangalore and Africa should be grown in Manipur to contribute to the state’s food reserves.
Samurailatpam Jasobanta of Sagolband Thangjam Leirak has successfully grown this Yongchak variety and reaped its benefits. He mentioned that he planted two saplings in 2017, with one surviving and bearing fruit in just seven years. The Thailand variety of Parkia speciosa is known for its unique aroma and flavour, and when peeled, it has distinct orange and mustard colours. Jasobanta expressed his desire to grow more saplings of this variety in the future.
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