The resumption of the state-level orange festival in Manipur’s Tamenglong district has rekindled optimism among hundreds of orange growers, marking a significant moment after a two-year interruption caused by the state’s ongoing conflict. The 18th edition of the festival commenced on December 17 at the district mini stadium and is set to conclude today, bringing together farmers, officials and visitors around the district’s prized GI-tagged Tamenglong orange.
Organised by the Manipur government, the festival is intended not only as a cultural showcase but also as a critical livelihood support for local farmers who have faced prolonged market disruptions. For many growers, the event has provided a rare opportunity to sell their produce directly to consumers, bypassing intermediaries and securing better returns—an option that was largely unavailable during the years when the festival could not be held.
Despite the renewed enthusiasm, the scale of participation remains below pre-conflict levels. Several growers noted that concerns over law and order have discouraged visitors, especially from Imphal, from travelling to Tamenglong. Many felt that the festival’s impact would have been far greater had people from all regions of the state been able to attend without restrictions.
Additional District Magistrate Chunglenmang Kipgen said visitor turnout has been reasonably encouraging, with people arriving from various districts. He acknowledged earlier criticism that farmer-centric issues were often overshadowed by cultural events, and said this year’s edition was consciously redesigned to prioritise growers through expanded agricultural programmes and direct market access.
Beyond orange sales, the festival features technical sessions on improved cultivation practices aimed at boosting productivity and sustainability. The programme also includes a broad range of cultural and recreational activities, with performances by bands from Manipur and other states, along with art and literary events, indigenous wrestling, land and water sports, trekking, camping, and expeditions to Tharon Cave.
Civil society representatives from Tamenglong highlighted the festival’s long-standing role in promoting sustainable orange farming and positioning the district as a tourism hub. They expressed hope that the renewed focus on farmers would help Tamenglong oranges gain wider recognition in national and international markets.
Awarded the Geographical Indication tag in 2017, Tamenglong orange contributes more than half of Manipur’s total orange production. With increasing emphasis on organic farming, the fruit continues to be a cornerstone of the district’s rural economy, making the festival’s return a timely boost for both farmers and the local community.
