The Department of Life Sciences (Botany), Manipur University, successfully organized the first day of a two-day National Seminar on “Plant Health Management for Food Security” today, May 12, 2026, to commemorate the International Day of Plant Health.
Held in hybrid mode, the seminar is focused on the theme “Plant Biosecurity for Food Security” and has highlighted the vital role of plant health in achieving national food security.
The inaugural session was graced by Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam, Vice-Chancellor (In-charge) of Manipur University, as Chief Guest. Guests of Honour included Prof. N. Mohilal Meitei, Dean, School of Life Sciences, Manipur University; Prof. Kumanand Tayung, Dean, Faculty of Sciences, Gauhati University; and Prof. Ksh. Birla Singh, Head, Department of Zoology, Manipur University.
The session was presided over by Prof. Kananbala Sarangthem, Head, Department of Life Sciences (Botany). Dr. Heikham Evelin and Prof. S. Sureshkumar Singh are serving as Organizing Secretaries.
Prof. Kumanand Tayung delivered the keynote lecture, followed by invited talks from Prof. Ng. Iboyaima Singh of Central Agricultural University (CAU), Dr. Y. Premananda Singh of Manipur University, and Dr. T. Basanta of ICAR.
The seminar deliberated on several key areas, including microbial diversity and plant health management, biotic and abiotic stress management, biofertilizers and biopesticides, natural farming systems, sustainable development, biodiversity assessment and utilization for food, medicine and industry, plant and microbial bioresource-based entrepreneurship, IPR issues related to plant and microbial products, scientific farming practices, government initiatives, and the importance of underutilized crops and vegetables for food security.
More than 90 participants, including faculty members, research scholars, and postgraduate students from Manipur and other states such as Assam, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, are actively participating and presenting their research findings.
The valedictory function will be held tomorrow (May 13) and will be graced by Prof. N. Mohilal Meitei, Dean, School of Life Sciences, MU; Prof. L. Rajendrakumar Singh, Finance Officer, MU; and Prof. Kananbala Sarangthem.
The seminar is expected to conclude with a strong call for integrated and sustainable plant health management strategies to strengthen food security in the country.
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