The story of the Kachai Lemon dates back to the mid-20th century when S. Paisho, a visionary farmer from Kachai, introduced lemon seeds from Shillong in 1944. These seeds quickly took root, and by the 1950s, the trees had flourished in Kachai’s climate and soil, yielding fruit known for its exceptional aroma, flavor, and juice content. Recognizing the lemon’s potential, the village council implemented a policy requiring every household to cultivate at least 50 lemon trees.
This forward-thinking move laid the foundation for what would become a thriving community-based agro-enterprise, transforming Kachai into a hub of lemon cultivation.
What Makes the Kachai Lemon Unique?
The Kachai Lemon stands out for several reasons, its high ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) content, juicy pulp, and natural resilience to pests. On average, it contains 45 to 51 mg of Vitamin C per 100 ml of juice, much higher than common commercial lemons. The juice yield per fruit ranges between 36–56 ml, with a uniquely tangy taste and pleasant aroma.
These qualities are attributed to the village’s subtropical climate, foggy mornings, and acidic soil (pH 4.5–6.2). Kachai’s elevation (around 1800 meters above sea level) and naturally rich biodiversity also contribute to the lemon’s exceptional characteristics. Since most farmers rely on organic practices, the fruit is largely free from chemical residues, adding to its appeal.
From Backyard Trees to a Rural Enterprise
Initially grown in backyard gardens, Kachai Lemons are now cultivated in well-managed orchards. Over time, farmers began planting hundreds, and in some cases thousands of trees, turning lemon farming into a commercially viable activity.
Many families earn substantial seasonal income by selling both lemons and saplings. Some farmers have scaled up to earn between ₹6–20 lakh a year, particularly by combining fruit sales with nurseries and value-added products. The lemons are sold across markets in Imphal, Assam, and even as far as Kolkata and Guwahati.
Science Meets Sustainability
The scientific community, especially the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, has played a key role in standardizing cultivation techniques and improving yields. Researchers have also developed methods to convert lemon juice into powder, increasing shelf life and facilitating export potential.
Several initiatives also focus on organic certification, post-harvest processing, and marketing. Cold storage facilities and packaging units are gradually being introduced under Manipur Organic Mission Agency (MOMA)’s guidance. These efforts ensure that the lemons maintain their quality even after long-distance transport.
Kachai Lemon Festival: More Than Just a Celebration
Every year, the community comes together for the Kachai Lemon Festival, held in January. Organized jointly by the Department of Horticulture & Soil Conservation, Manipur, and local bodies, the festival is both a celebration and a showcase.
Stalls line the village showcasing fresh lemons, lemon pickles, beverages, saplings, and lemon powder. Seminars and farmer-scientist interactions educate growers about pest control, organic certification, and market trends. Cultural programs and traditional performances add color and local flavor.
The 21st edition in 2025, themed “Zest for Life: Embracing Lemon’s Health Benefits,” attracted tourists, policy-makers, entrepreneurs, and academics, reinforcing Kachai’s position on the national agri-tourism map.
Champion Farmers and Success Stories
Farmers like Shri Yangmiso Humao exemplify the success of scientific cultivation and community-driven initiatives. By shifting from traditional farming methods to organic orchard development, Yangmiso grew from earning ₹35,000 a year to over ₹6 lakh annually, inspiring many others to adopt improved techniques.
Women, too, play an active role in cultivation, collection, nursery management, and festival organization. The lemon economy has fostered financial independence for many rural women, making it not just a fruit but an agent of empowerment.
A Village That Turned Citrus into Gold
The story of Kachai Lemon is a remarkable testament to the synergy between traditional knowledge and modern innovation. In a time when many rural communities are grappling with migration, unemployment, and ecological decline, Kachai has built a model around a humble fruit, one that nourishes, empowers, and inspires.
As the lemon trees continue to bloom in the mist-covered hills of Manipur, they tell a larger story of what is possible when communities come together to nurture nature, value tradition, and embrace change.
