NEW DELHI/IMPHAL: Manipur has won the Global Excellence Award in the GI Rice category at the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 in New Delhi, recognising the state’s indigenous rice varieties and innovations in value-added rice products.
The award was received on behalf of the state by Kh. Nimaichand Singh, seed analyst in the Department of Agriculture, Manipur.
The three-day conference, organised by the Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF), was held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, from October 23 to 25. Manipur showcased its GI-tagged Chak-Hao (black scented rice) and Chak-Hao Angouba (white scented rice), alongside a range of value-added products developed from indigenous rice varieties.
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The products on display included instant Chak-Hao kheer, cookies, gulla and bhujia, highlighting the scope for diversifying traditional rice into new food products and expanding its market reach.
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Live demonstrations of Korean-style kimbap and Japanese sushi rolls prepared using the state’s black and white scented rice further showcased their culinary versatility. The rice varieties’ distinctive aroma, taste, texture and naturally sticky characteristics offer possibilities for their use in contemporary Asian cuisine.
The showcase also highlighted the potential to introduce Manipur’s indigenous rice varieties to consumers in Delhi and other urban centres, while creating opportunities for farmers, farmer producer organisations and local entrepreneurs through value addition and stronger market linkages.
The recognition marks an important platform for promoting Manipur’s indigenous agricultural heritage and exploring new domestic and international markets for its distinctive rice varieties.
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