Manipur recently witnessed a vibrant display of cultural heritage and agricultural pride. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla officially inaugurated the 18th State-Level Orange Festival in Tamenglong at the district’s Mini Stadium. The three-day event, running from December 17 to 19, marks a significant return for the festival after a two-year hiatus. This celebration highlights the state’s “Celebration for a Cause” theme, focusing on sustainable livelihoods for indigenous farmers.
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Governor Inaugurates the 18th Orange Festival in Tamenglong
Governor Bhalla opened the festivities alongside First Lady Jyoti Bhalla and local dignitaries. He praised the resilience of the local community and the unique quality of the Tamenglong orange. This specific fruit received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2017, cementing its status as a premium agricultural product. During his address, the Governor reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive development and the preservation of indigenous culture.
The Governor also noted that Tamenglong district produces over 50% of Manipur’s total orange output. With more than 350 organic growers participating, the festival serves as a critical economic engine. It provides a platform for farmers to showcase their harvest directly to consumers and experts.
Empowering Local Farmers and Sustainable Livelihoods
The primary goal of the Orange Festival in Tamenglong is to support the local agrarian economy. The state government has designated the orange as the “One District One Product” (ODOP) for Tamenglong. To further this goal, Governor Bhalla promised new initiatives like cold storage facilities and tissue culture laboratories. These advancements will help farmers preserve their crops longer and maintain the genetic purity of the Tamenglong orange variety.
An “Orange Competition” remains the festival’s centerpiece. This year, over 300 growers competed for top honors. A panel of scientist-judges evaluates the entries based on taste, juice content, and freedom from pests. The winner of the best orange category receives a grand prize of ₹2,00,000, while other participants receive significant cash incentives.
Boosting Tourism and Infrastructure
Beyond agriculture, the festival promotes the district as a prime tourism destination. Governor Bhalla highlighted the natural beauty of the region, including the Tharon Caves and Zeilad Lake. He also assured the public that the Imphal-Tamenglong-Kangchup road would soon be fully operational. Improved connectivity is essential for transporting perishable fruits and attracting international tourists to the Orange Festival in Tamenglong.
Cultural Highlights and Community Participation
The festival is not just about farming; it is a celebration of Zeliangrong identity. The inaugural day featured vibrant cultural dances from the Zeme, Rongmei, Liangmai, and Inpui tribes. A traditional fire-making show and indigenous wrestling matches captivated the audience. These activities strengthen the social fabric and provide a message of peace and unity across the state.
Entertainment is a major draw for younger audiences. The “Tamenglong’s Got Talent” show and the “Orange Queen” beauty pageant offer local youth a chance to showcase their skills. Famous musical acts like The Prophets and Mangka Band are scheduled to perform during the musical nights. These events turn the Orange Festival in Tamenglong into a comprehensive cultural extravaganza.
Overcoming Challenges for a Successful Event
The road to the 18th edition was not without hurdles. Local civil society organizations initially considered a boycott due to regional concerns. However, after extensive dialogue and appeals from community leaders, they withdrew the boycott. This decision ensured that the interests of the orange growers remained the top priority. The successful opening of the festival proves the power of community cooperation in Manipur.
Key Highlights of the 18th Orange Festival
| Event Category | Key Feature | Prize/Significance |
| Orange Competition | 300+ Growers | ₹2,00,000 First Prize |
| Beauty Pageant | Orange Queen 2025 | ₹1,50,000 for Winner |
| Talent Search | Tamenglong’s Got Talent | Platform for Youth |
| Agri-Tourism | Tharon Cave Expedition | Promoting Local Sites |
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Tamenglong
The inauguration of the 18th Orange Festival in Tamenglong marks a turning point for the district’s economy. By combining traditional farming with modern tourism and technology, Manipur is setting a standard for sustainable development. Governor Bhalla’s visit and his promises of infrastructure growth provide much-needed hope to the orange growers of the region.
As the festival continues, the message remains clear: the “Celebration for a Cause” is about more than just fruit. It is about the dignity of the farmer, the beauty of the hills, and the unity of the people.
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