Lack of publicity and marketing makes Hathei of Ukhrul unknown to outside world

Imphal, September 01 2011: Hathei, one of the best varieties of chillies in the world found in Sirarakhong in Ukhrul district of Manipur (India) has long been forgotten and not grown. Despite its uniqueness, lack of publicity and marketing has made it unknown to the outside world. Hathei (local tangkhul name) is unique in its taste as well as its looks. Besides its uniqueness in its looks and flavour it is believed and claimed by the villagers of Sirarakhong that this particular variety of chilli though cannot be planted in other parts rather than Sirarakhong, its yield capacity will decrease.

Apart from this, the size, shape and the taste are quite singular. This is mainly because Hathei is only suited to the climatic conditions of Sirarakhong. Hence it is believed to be God's gift to the villagers of Sirarakhong.




Speaking to this reporter, Ashimwon, a villager of Sirarakhong, said that Hathei is a high yielding variety of chilli. In an average a Hathei plant produces 170 to 180 numbers of chillies in a year. Every year the village produces more than 1500 kgs of chillies but due to lack of proper marketing the products are sold to adjacent villages, Ukhrul and Imphal.

It is also exported to Nagaland and Shillong but in less quantity since the transportation system is very poor in the region. And at the same time the publicity level of this unique variety of chilli is very poor. So very few people know about the uniqueness of this variety of chilli. He further said that in spite of all these drawbacks one thing is very clear that once a person tastes this chilli, he or she never forgets its indescribable flavour and the taste is remembered forever. Another farmer talking to this reporter said that if one takes keen interest in the cultivation of this particular variety of chilli, it can be very profitable.

Moreover the entire village can maintain livelihoods by engaging themselves in cultivating Hathei, if only proper markets are introduced and full publicity is given. If the transportation problem is solved, a market will emerge. It may be noted that the Sirarakhong Shanalong, a women's society, working to introduce market facilities and to popularize this chilli has been celebrating Hathei Phanit (chilli festival) every year since 2010 .

Source: e-pao.net