Thoubal Chak Hao Black Rice Cooperative Manipur

Chak Hao is a sticky black rice variety grown exclusively in Manipur, primarily in Thoubal and Imphal East districts, that has received GI tag in 2020. The rice gets its black colour from anthocyanins in the bran layer, giving it rich antioxidant properties and a nutty flavour. Farmers grow Chak Hao on rain-fed lowland plots and harvest in October. The traditional Manipuri Ima market — the world largest women-run market in Imphal — is a major retail point for Chak Hao. Cooperative women growers in Thoubal organise collective paddy threshing, milling, and packaging under Chak Hao brand. Demand from wellness food companies in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and export to Japan has grown significantly since GI tag.