Agriculture forms the livelihood for the majority of the population surrounding Ukhrul. The region practices a mix of traditional shifting cultivation (jhum) on the hill slopes and settled terrace farming in the valleys.
Rice is the staple crop, alongside maize, potatoes, cabbage, and a variety of organic hill vegetables. Ukhrul is famous across the state for its horticultural produce, particularly the 'Kachai Lemon' (Citrus jambhiri Lush), which has a uniquely high ascorbic acid content and has been awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Livestock rearing—including poultry, piggery, and cattle—is commonly integrated into household farming. In recent years, there has been a strong push toward organic farming, taking advantage of the pristine soil untouched by industrial fertilizers.
