The Meghalaya government has announced an ambitious plan to expand organic farming across one lakh hectares, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable agriculture. Agriculture Minister Timothy D. Shira revealed that sixty thousand hectares are already dedicated to organic practices, with plans underway to add another forty thousand hectares to achieve the target.
According to the minister, there is a growing awareness among local farmers regarding the long-term benefits of organic cultivation. This shift is being actively supported by the central government. In a significant move to discourage chemical dependency, the state has halted the distribution of chemical fertilizers. Instead, farmers are steadily transitioning to bio-fertilizers and natural manure to cultivate their crops.
A major highlight of the state’s agricultural success is the cultivation of the famous Lakadong turmeric under the Khadi Mission. Shira emphasized that a cooperative-based model has revolutionized the local market. By selling their produce directly to cooperative societies, farmers are cutting out middlemen and securing much better financial returns for their hard work.
While the agricultural outlook remains highly positive, challenges persist. The minister noted that improving rice cultivation productivity under changing climatic conditions remains a primary focus for the department. However, he dismissed concerns regarding the impact of rapid urbanization on agricultural territory, reassuring the public that farming areas across the state remain largely unaffected and secure.
With strong cooperative networks and a definitive shift away from chemicals, Meghalaya is steadily positioning itself as a leader in the green revolution, ensuring both environmental sustainability and economic security for its farming community.