Rise of the rice hoppers: A new menace in Chak-hao cultivation

In Manipur, where Chak-hao is traditionally grown, there are two main variants: Chak-hao Poreiton (purple) and Chak-hao Amubi (red). This aromatic pigmented rice, known for its unique fragrance and nutty taste, has earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. It now faces a new and significant threat from the rice hopper complex. Recently, hopperburn has been observed in Chak-hao crops, indicating the variety's vulnerability to these pests. This susceptibility is particularly concerning given that Chak-hao is cultivated organically, without synthetic chemicals. The primary planthopper species that feed on rice plants (Oryza sativa L.) include the brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, the white-backed planthopper (WBPH), Sogatella furcifera, and the small brown planthopper, Laodelphax striatellus. The brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens, is especially notable for its ability to migrate long distances through the development of long-winged morphs. The migratory nature of these pests, coupled with pesticide-induced secondary resurgence, poses a severe risk to rice cultivation, including Chak-hao.