Economic Viability and Traditional Cultivation Practices of Chinese Chives (Allium tuberosum Rottler ex Sprengel) in Bishnupur District, Manipur, India

Abstract

Chinese chives syn. Allium (Allium tuberosum Rottler ex-sprengel) belongs to the family Amaryllidaceae. It is locally known as “Maroi-nakuppi” in Manipur. It is an indigenous perennial herb available in abundance at the valley districts of Manipur and has been domesticated since time immemorial. A survey was conducted to collect the information on its uses and agronomic practices with economic return. It is very rich in minerals and vitamins and has got medicinal property. The whole plant can be used as antibacterial, cardiac, depurative, digestive, stimulant, stomachic tonic, anti-emetic, urinary incontinence, kidney and bladder weaknesses, bites, cuts, wounds, moth repellent, etc. This herb is traditionally used in various folk medicines as di-uretic and as wormicide to infants suffering from tape, round worms, etc. It also acts to regulate the normal flow of urine and is used in the treatment of fungal and bacterial infection on head. In Manipur, it is widely used as a flavouring agent in curry preparation in place of onion mostly in vegetarian items. It can be used as a flavouring ingredient in preparation of various food processing items. As Allium tuberosum is a high value indeginous spice herb, its cultivation with Improved package of practices will help to improve the economy of the marginal and sub marginal farmers. In Manipur, this indigenous spice has become very popular and some of the marginal and sub-marginal farmers have a good source of income simply by cultivating it throughout the year. It has got good demand in the local markets and many farmers may lead to a sustainable agriculture by producing Allium. It was observed that by adopting Integrated traditional knowledge practices, an average leaf yield of 105.75 q/ha with Benefit Cost ratio of 3.25: 1 could be obtained in a year. Thus, popularization on scientific cultivation of this crop is required for the welfare of the farmers and as a source of income generation for unemployed youths.