Shillong, May 21: The Meghalaya government is expanding organic farming across one lakh hectares as part of its sustainable agriculture initiative.
Agriculture Minister Timothy D. Shira highlighted the increasing awareness among farmers regarding the benefits of organic practices, which aligns with the support from the central government.
He said farmers are gradually moving away from chemical fertilizers in favour of bio-fertilizers and natural manure. “No chemical fertilizers are being distributed, and people are now trying to avoid them,” the minister stated.
Shira said currently around 60,000 hectares are dedicated to organic farming, with plans for an additional 40,000 hectares to meet the ambitious target.
Highlighting the success of Lakadong turmeric under the Khadi Mission, the minister said the cooperative-based model has significantly benefited farmers as they are now receiving better returns by selling their produce directly to cooperative societies.
He said challenge remains to improve rice cultivation productivity amidst climatic conditions while dismissing concerns that rapid urbanisation is reducing agricultural land and that farming areas in the state remain largely unaffected.
