Current Context: The 14^th Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli Festival was inaugurated at Sirarakhong Village, Ukhrul District, Manipur to promote the GI-tagged Hathei chilli and boost local farming and cultural tourism.

ABOUT HATHEI CHILLI FESTIVAL

• Location: Sirarakhong, Manipur
• Organised to: Promote Manipur’s unique GI-tagged chilli variety
• Key Events:
  • Ceremonial Flag Hoisting
  • Cultural performances
  • Buyer-Seller Meet to connect farmers with markets
  • Tree Plantation Drive under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign

ABOUT HATHEI CHILLI

• Origin: Sirarakhong village, Ukhrul district, Manipur
• Features:
  • GI-tagged crop
  • Bright red colour, medium pungency, strong aroma
• Uses: Culinary spice, pickles, food processing
• Significance: Symbol of Manipur’s agricultural identity and cultural heritage