Imphal, Nov. 14 -- The Sirarakhong community of Manipur's Ukhrul district has received the prestigious Plant Genome Saviour Community Award 2024-25 for conserving the rare Sirarakhong Hathei chilli for a century.

Presented by the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFRA), the national award includes a citation, a memento and a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh.

The funds are intended to support the community's ongoing conservation and marketing initiatives for the indigenous chilli, which is prized for its distinct aroma, antioxidant content and health benefits.

Pramod Kumar Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, presented the award as the chief guest at the Authority's 22nd Foundation Day celebration at t...