Meghalaya CM launches multi-scheme for farmers

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday rolled out a comprehensive agricultural support package aimed at improving farmers’ income through targeted interventions, value addition and sustainable practices. Addressing an input distribution programme in West Garo Hills district, Sangma reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the backbone of the State’s economy, with over 70 percent of households engaged in farming and allied activities.
“Every intervention we make in this sector directly impacts the lives and livelihoods of our people,” the Chief Minister said, highlighting ongoing schemes designed to support farmers and self-help groups in upgrading skills, enhancing productivity and adding value to their produce.
A key focus of the programme is the Ginger Mission, launched in 2022, under which the government has invested over Rs. 62 crores, benefitting more than 19,000 farmers. Sangma announced that the initiative will be expanded to cover an additional 15,000 farmers, each receiving 100 kg of quality ginger seed free of cost. He emphasized that the mission aims to restore Meghalaya’s position as a leading ginger-producing state.
The Chief Minister also distributed cheques for low-cost vermicomposting units to promote organic manure production and reduce dependency on external inputs. He underscored the importance of value addition, noting the growing network of food processing units across the State. A major ginger processing facility worth Rs. 20 crore is nearing completion in Ri Bhoi district, expected to benefit nearly 10,000 farmers by providing assured market linkages and better returns.
Sangma further encouraged farmers to take advantage of the schemes, stressing that the initiatives are designed to improve productivity, enhance income and ensure long-term sustainability. “Processing is key to increasing farmers’ income. Through these food processing units, we are ensuring that farmers get better value for their produce and access to larger markets,” he said.
Beyond ginger, the government is also promoting high-value crops such as vanilla and cocoa in Garo Hills. So far, 794 farmers have been supported in cocoa cultivation covering 650 hectares, while 2,456 farmers have taken up vanilla cultivation across 236 hectares.
The Chief Minister reiterated that timely access to quality seeds remains a priority, with the government working in “mission mode” to ensure farmers receive the right inputs at the right time.