An exhibition showcasing value-added products from soft-shelled Job’s Tears, known locally as “Chaning Athotpa” (Coix lacryma-jobi L.), took place on Tuesday at the Manipur University canteen, aiming to improve the socio-economic conditions of farmers in Manipur. The inauguration was attended by prominent figures including Prof. N. Lokendra Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Manipur University, and leading experts from various affiliated organizations. This event was part of a project sponsored by the ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology (IARI Campus, New Delhi), titled “Processing and Product Formulation of Job’s Tears for Socio-economic Benefit of Farmers in Manipur.” This exhibition is a continuation of a previous initiative that successfully established a Job’s Tears village seed bank during the year 2024-25.
The current phase focuses on developing a range of diversified products derived from Job’s Tears to enhance its commercial potential. In the last year, extensive trials have led to the creation of various innovative products, including cookies, muffins, bread, nutrimeals, and beverages, which showcase the versatility of this crop. The initiative is spearheaded by Dr. Thangjam Robert Singh, an Associate Professor at the Department of Botany at Manipur University, with support from Dr. Tapan Kumar Mondal from ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology.
The project fosters collaboration with local enterprises such as Thangjam Agro Limited and Machang Bakery, ensuring a robust partnership between academic institutions, industry, and the local community. The exhibition served not just as a display of products but as a significant platform for demonstrating the potential of Job’s Tears in fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable development for farmers in the region.
