In an effort to promote self-sustainability and enhance the rural economy during Manipur’s prolonged crisis, the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), Manipur, in collaboration with the Departments of Agriculture and Horticulture, distributed seeds of various Rabi (winter) crops to farmers in Kakching district today.
According to a release issued by Nerish Mangang, Secretary, Information & Public Relations, FOCS, over 100 farmers were provided seeds under the initiative, which forms a part of the organisation’s continuing livelihood support activities to strengthen agricultural productivity in the state.
The distribution programme was conducted at the FOCS Kakching office, led by FOCS Kakching District President N. Lukhoi, accompanied by officials associated with both Agriculture and Horticulture Departments.
The release highlighted that Manipur has been facing a severe economic setback due to the crisis that has persisted for over two years, affecting not only trade and social stability but also the livelihood of farmers who are key to sustaining the state’s food system.
FOCS noted that in times where normal livelihoods and movement have been disrupted, agriculture remains one of the most dependable sectors for community survival and economic recovery.
FOCS further stated that it has been actively organising diverse livelihood skill programmes in multiple areas of Manipur, including mushroom cultivation training, beekeeping (honey production) training, and seed distribution drives, with the aim of empowering local farmers to become more resilient and economically independent.
It appealed for continued cooperation from the public in continuing similar initiatives across the state.
