Manipur Workshop emphasises on medicinal values of Tree Bean
New Delhi:With an aim to conserve and promote plantation of local varieties of Tree Bean (Yongchak), a 2-Day State Level Workshop cum Exhibition of Tree Bean (Yongchak) began at ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, Imphal on Tuesday. The State Level Workshop cum Exhibition will conclude on Wednesday.
The programme was organised by Association for Protection and Promotion of Tree Bean (APPOT), an association jointly formed by ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Imphal, Manipur University (MU), Imphal, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, Manipur Organic Mission Agency (MOMA), Department of Environment & Climate Change, Government of Manipur, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-North East Institute of Science & Technology (CSIR-NEIST), Imphal, Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Imphal and The Apunba Imagi Machasing (AIMS), Manipur.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest DR. V.K. Mishra, Director, ICAR RC NEHR, Umiam, Meghalaya stressed on the medicinal values and the need to promote plantation and conservation of tree beans. He assured that the Research Institute will help to preserve the population of tree beans in the State. He said that potential seedlings will be provided to everyone and the Institute will provide funding to the farmers. He further said that there is a need to develop agricultural and horticultural practices and to identify the important areas and threats in conserving tree beans in the State.
Professor Amar Yumnam, Chairman, APPOT said that while conserving and promoting the plantation of yongchak, there is a need to protect the environment as well. He said that we should not only concentrate on the planting of tree beans but also on different varieties of trees for a better ecosystem.
It may be mentioned that Tree Bean (Yongchak), a leguminous multipurpose tree, is a highly economical plant. It is a favourite cuisine for the people in Northeast India particularly Manipur. The plant parts are used at all stages starting from florets to mature black seeds and can be consumed either in fresh condition or sun-dried for use during off-seasons. It is commonly grown wild in the Jhums, forests and backyards of houses throughout Northeast India without any special care. It is a good source of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. It is claimed that the pods are good in easing depression, anemia, blood pressure, constipation, heartburn, strokes, and helps improve eyesight and digestion.
The workshop, having five sessions, started with three sessions on the 1st day at the Conference Hall, ICAR, Lamphelpat. It was attended by officials of ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Imphal, faculty members and students of Manipur University, IGNTU-RCM, Makhan, Manipur, CAU, Imphal, ICAR Manipur Centre, ICAR, KVK, Imphal West and representatives of AIMS.
Stalls were opened by farmers coming from different districts of the state such as Maram, Chandel, Tamenglong, Kamjong, Theiyong and Maklang showcasing different home grown local varieties of Yongchaks.
