Shirui Lilly Found in Manipur

The question asks to identify the Indian state where the unique terrestrial lily, Shirui (or Siroy) Lilly, is found.

About the Shirui Lilly

• The Shirui Lilly (Lilium mackliniae) is a rare species of lily.
• It is known for its beautiful pinkish-purple, bell-shaped flowers.
• Distinctively, it is a terrestrial lily, meaning it grows in the ground rather than epiphytically (on other plants).
• This lily is particularly famous and holds significant cultural importance in Northeast India.

Geographical Distribution

The Shirui Lilly has a very specific and limited natural habitat:

• It is endemic to the **Manipur** state of India.
• Specifically, it grows primarily on the **Shirui Kashong peak** in the Ukhrul district of Manipur.
• The Shirui Lily Festival is celebrated annually in Manipur to promote tourism and conserve this endangered flower.

Considering the Options

Let's look at why Manipur is the correct answer compared to the other options:

• Assam: While Assam has rich biodiversity, the Shirui Lilly is not native to this state.
• West Bengal: West Bengal's flora is diverse, but it does not host the natural population of the Shirui Lilly.
• Manipur: This is the correct state, known as the sole natural habitat for the Shirui Lilly.
• Tripura: Similar to Assam and West Bengal, Tripura does not have the Shirui Lilly growing naturally within its borders.

Therefore, the Shirui Lilly is exclusively found in Manipur.