SENAPATI, Dec 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted inspiring grassroots entrepreneurs from Manipur during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, praising their efforts in blending traditional knowledge with a modern outlook to drive economic empowerment and community development.
The Prime Minister lauded Chokhone Krichena, known as the “Flower Lady of Manipur”, for transforming floriculture into a sustainable livelihood opportunity in Senapati district. Modi said Krichena’s work exemplifies how innovation rooted in tradition can become a powerful vehicle for economic progress.
In 2021, she launched Dianthe Private Limited, a floriculture enterprise specialising in the cultivation and marketing of decorative flowers, moving away from her family’s traditional hill farming practices. By collaborating closely with women farmers in Senapati, her initiative has enabled locally grown decorative flowers to reach markets across several States in India.
Appreciating her efforts, the Prime Minister noted that Krichena’s ability to expand traditional experience with a modern vision has empowered local communities, particularly women. Krichena said her team felt encouraged and honoured that their journey towards self-reliance, inclusive development and grassroots entrepreneurship was recognised and shared on Mann Ki Baat.
During the programme, Modi also spoke about the broader role of Mann Ki Baat as a platform to showcase individuals who are preserving traditional arts while creating new economic opportunities. In this context, he cited the work of Margaret Ramtharsiem from Churachandpur district as another notable example from Manipur.
Ramtharsiem began her journey as a handicraft artist but soon envisioned a larger role for the State’s traditional products, including handicrafts and items made from bamboo and wood. With this expanded vision, she emerged as a catalyst for change in her community. Today, her handicraft unit employs more than 50 local artisans and has successfully developed markets for its products in several States, including Delhi.
