A silent revolution is occurring in Manipur as young entrepreneurs use the unique biodiversity of the area to make herbal drinks using components that are acquired locally. Startups like Dwellers Teas and Nongmadol Beverage are at the forefront of this movement, making sustainable drinks that are becoming popular in Northeast India and beyond.
These brands offer unique blends made from Sumac berries, citrus peels, and forest herbs. They are changing the way people think about starting a natural, local beverage business in India.
From Forest to Bottle: Locally Sourced Herbal Blends
Startups headquartered in Manipur are unique because they leverage local materials and expertise. They frequently collaborate with women-led organisations and tribal tribes to collect materials from Manipur’s fields and forests. Among the widely used substances are, Sumac berries, which have a tangy flavour and are rich in antioxidants. Peels from citrus fruits are proven to improve immunity and aid with digestion. Native plants and flowers are frequently utilised in traditional Naga and Meitei medicine.
These materials are used to make dry blends, concentrates, and herbal teas in bottles. They aim to attract health-conscious customers who are looking for alternatives to caffeinated beverages or sugary sodas.
Small-Scale, High-Impact Production
Despite logistical challenges and limited infrastructure, brands like Dwellers and Nongmadol produce hundreds of boxes per month from their small-scale facilities. Most products are priced between ₹50 and ₹200, making them affordable for local markets while still appealing to premium organic buyers online.
Packaging is eco-friendly, often using glass bottles or recycled cardboard, and many of the products are sold at regional events, farmers markets, and through e-commerce platforms like Instagram and Amazon.
A Boost for Local Economy and Youth Entrepreneurship
These startups are more than just a business, they’re a platform for local economic empowerment. By sourcing directly from nearby villages and offering jobs in production, branding, and logistics, they’re helping create opportunities for young entrepreneurs and women in Manipur.
They also represent a growing wave of Northeast India startups that are leveraging cultural identity and sustainability as key business drivers.
Future Potential: National Expansion and Wellness Trends
As demand for natural wellness drinks grows across India, these herbal beverage startups are well-positioned to expand. With the right support, incubation, funding, and distribution networks, they could soon be the face of India’s next big herbal wellness movement.
From forest trails to retail shelves, Manipur’s herbal beverage brands are proving that tradition and entrepreneurship can blend beautifully.
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