SHILLONG: Seventeen years have passed since the demand for legalising fruit winemaking in the state was first made but the request is still lying unattended somewhere in the files of Secretariat.
Michael Syiem, the organiser of the Shillong Wine Festival, deplored over state government not paying any heed to the demand made by the winemakers despite over a decade has passed since the Shillong Wine Festival is being organised.
He, however, informed that the matter was recently taken up with Agriculture Minister Banteidor Lyngdoh, who seemed to be interested in following up the matter.
“The minister told us we will meet within this month to carry forward the matter,” Syiem said.
Informing that fruit winemaking is legalised in Arunachal Pradesh, he questioned as to why the state government is not interested in legalising it though alcohol is not banned in the state.
Syiem also maintained that the state has huge potential as far as winemaking is concerned as different varieties of fruits are grown in the state.
In addition, it would also help small-cottage industries besides promoting tourism as travellers are always thrilled to explore authentic, local flavour, he added.
Legalising fruit winemaking would also increase the government exchequer in terms of revenue, Syiem added.
