A honey processing plant was today inaugurated at Tynnai village in South West Khasi Hills district by Mawkyrwat BDO, Isagahah Lawriniang.
The project was implemented under the Apiculture Mission 2.0 at a total cost of Rs. 30 lakh.
A function to celebrate the launch was organised by the Office of the General Manager, District Commerce and Industries Centre (DCIC).
Speaking at the function, Lawriniang praised the hard work and dedication of the Chairman and members of the Tynnai Multipurpose Cooperative Society and said its success is also due to the collaborative efforts of the DCIC, Mawkyrwat and the Horticulture Department.
He said honey from Tynnai village is renowned for its sweetness and good quality, categorized as Grade A. He expressed his hope that the establishment of the honey processing plant will further enhance quality and boost production, facilitating supply both within the state and to other parts of the country.
Lawriniang also emphasised on the importance of product quality, marketing, and branding to raise awareness across the state and country. He highlighted that an increase in demand for honey would lead to significant profits and growth for the Tynnai Multipurpose Cooperative Society and local beekeepers, thereby improving their livelihoods.
Deputy Director (Planning), Commerce and Industries D. Kharjana highlighted the Apiculture Mission 1.0 and Apiculture Mission 2.0, which include components such as beekeeping training programmes, awareness programmes, and the establishment of a honey processing plant.
She informed that among the ten clusters selected for the establishment of the honey processing plant, only the Tynnai Multipurpose Cooperative Society has fulfilled the objective of the government by effectively implementing the project. The government has provided bee boxes specifically designed for Apis cerana bees found in Meghalaya, she said and urged farmers to make use of these resources to progress in apiculture and enhance their livelihoods.
General Manager of DCIC, M. War informed that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the Honey Processing Plant was signed by the DCIC office and the Tynnai Multipurpose Cooperative Society in 2022.
