The Scheme had been implementing in the department of Agriculture since 2015-16. Under this scheme the department had been benefited 2000 farmers with an area of 2000 ha. in four valley districts of the state. The seed of Black Aromatic Rice have been distributed to the registered farmers of the four valley districts of the state covering an area of 2000 ha for the year 2017-18.
Black Aromatic Rice is now gaining importance gradually in the national and international market from different categories of consumer. There is a very bright scope of export. It is considered to be the healthiest rice variety with higher vitamins and minerals content than white and brown rice. Its colour is due to the presence of powerful natural black coloring pigment viz. Anthocyanins which is an impressive antioxidant property resulting the health benefits of this type of rice. The net income of the Black Aromatic Rice is about Rs.1,01,880.00 per hectare.
The importance of Black Aromatic Rice has been realized in Manipur for the development of Agri-business Sector as reveals from the following facts:-
1. It is an ornamental rice and symbol of calmness among all plants.
2. It is top class royal food and a ritual item of different parts of Asia.
3. The by-products have economic utility because of aromatic character.
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