Manipur International University Achieves Global First, Publishes Genetic Blueprint of Fermented Fish ‘Utong Ngari’

IMPHAL, MANIPUR – 14 August 2025 – In a landmark achievement for both science and cultural heritage, the School of Biological Sciences at Manipur International University (MIU) has published the first-ever bacterial shotgun metagenomic gene sequence of Utong Ngari, a traditional fermented fish delicacy of Manipur. This pioneering research provides the first comprehensive genetic profile of the microbial communities responsible for the unique fermentation of the fish, which is traditionally processed in bamboo trunks.

The complete genetic dataset is now publicly accessible in the European Nucleotide Archive (ENA) in the UK, under Project ID PRJEB91848 and Accession Number ERP174778. The research, led by Professor Ajit Kumar Ngangbam, Dean of the School of Biological Sciences, employed advanced 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing to decode the complex microbiology of the regional food.

The study successfully identified the dominant microbial taxa that are key to the fermentation process, flavour development, and potential probiotic effects of Utong Ngari. Furthermore, functional predictions from the genetic data have revealed microbial pathways involved in creating organic acids and antimicrobial peptides. This discovery opens significant new avenues for developing standardized, value-added, and health-promoting fermented fish products.

“This is not just a scientific achievement; it is a tribute to the cultural heritage of Manipur,” stated Professor Ngangbam. “By decoding the microbial language of Utong Ngari, we are preserving indigenous knowledge while contributing to global food biotechnology.”

The research carries significant implications for the future:

• Open Science: By making the genetic sequence data publicly available, the project supports transparency, reproducibility, and further global research into microbial fermentation, probiotics, and food safety.
• Geographical Indication (GI) Potential: With its unique microbial identity and deep-rooted cultural heritage, Utong Ngari is a strong candidate for a GI tag, which would protect its indigenous value and promote global recognition.

Professor Ngangbam is a distinguished scientist with numerous international honors, including the Young Scientist Award (SERB), an Erasmus Mundus Fellowship from the European Union, and multiple postdoctoral fellowships in Australia, the USA, and Israel. He is currently engaged in an international research collaboration with Prof. Kirsten Benkendorff’s laboratory at Southern Cross University, Australia, and has published extensively in high-impact scientific journals.

The project’s success was attributed to the visionary leadership of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Harikumar Pallathadka, Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Potsangbam Kumar Singh, Registrar Prof. Takhelchangbam Brajeshwari Devi, Director Ningombam Amarjit Singh, and Administrative Officer Soriasham Kiran.

A heartfelt acknowledgment was extended to the dedicated research team of the School of Biological Sciences, whose teamwork was crucial in bringing the project to a global platform: Dr. Bijayalakshmi Devi Nongmaithem, Rocky Singh Haojam, Laishram Lenin Singh, Lakshmikanta Khundrakpam, and Laiphrakpam Pinky Chanu.

The complete project details can be viewed online at the ENA database: https://www.ebi.ac.uk/ena/browser/view/PRJEB91848.

About Manipur International University (MIU):

Manipur International University (MIU) is an autonomous State Private university established and recognized by the State Government of Manipur. It is also recognized and listed UGC, Govt. of India under sections 2(f) and 22 of UGC Act, 1956. It has been declared an “International University of Excellence” and an “Institution of State Importance.” MIU’s mission is to provide high-quality higher education with an emphasis on educating the nation’s rural and tribal communities through respected, relevant, accessible, and student-focused programs that prepare students for leadership in a diverse, global community.

Media Contact:

Manipur International University,

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Manipur – 795140

Email: info@miu.edu.in

Website: https://www.miu.edu.in/