Orange fest next year to help Nongjrong farmers

SHILLONG: The oranges from Nongjrong, which is marketed till mid-April, is set to get a platform next year at the Orange Festival to be held at Nongjrong.
Speaking to mediapersons, Mawkynrew MLA Banteidor Lyngdoh said the oranges from Nongjrong falling under Mawkynrew constituency are unique since they last long. “The festival will be a blessing to local residents as they will be known far and wide,” he said.
However, the bad road condition remains a stumbling block. he informed that the road is still under repair. “It will tentatively be held next year after the road is thoroughly repaired,” Lyngdoh said.
According to him, the scenic Nongjrong village also has tourism prospects and Chief Minister Conrad Sangma was informed on the need to have a bridge to connect Jaintia Hills, which will boost tourism and agriculture in the village.
Orange & pineapple mission
The Riwar Mihngi Development Council (RMDC) has insisted that the state government take initiative to launch orange, pineapple, potato and tomato missions to increase their production and promote income generation for farmers.“The best orange is produced from the Meghalaya coming from Riwar area, thus promoting this crop will surely benefit farmers and create employment in rural areas,” said the statement, adding that orange grew well in different parts of the state, including those in Garo Hills, Jaintia Hills and even in Ri Bhoi.
RMDC asserted that the reason why oranges from the North East do not reach mainland India is because these oranges are exported to Bangladesh and therefore there is a shortfall of supply in the domestic market.
Meanwhile, RMDC expressed endorsement to the resolution taken during the recent concluded farmers parliament held in Shillong organised by the Agriculture Department in collaboration with Hill Farmers Union.