Thursday, July 3, 2025
spot_img

State’s pineapples boost livelihoods

Date:

Share post:

spot_imgspot_img

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, July 24: Locally produced pineapples from various parts of Meghalaya are not only known for their exceptional taste but are also creating significant livelihood opportunities for local farmers. These pineapples have garnered recognition both across India and internationally, with consignments being exported to different states and countries.
The popularity of Meghalaya’s sweet and tasty pineapples was highlighted during the Pineapple Festival 2024, where an impressive 6.5 tons of organically grown pineapples were sold within the first four days. In total, Meghalaya exported 9-10 tons for the festival.
Medona Lyngdoh, a pineapple grower from the state, remarked that the situation for pineapple growers has improved significantly, with farmers now receiving a decent amount for their produce. She noted that many traders from Assam visit Ri-Bhoi to purchase pineapples in bulk for resale.
“Nowadays, we sell around 20 pineapples for approximately Rs 400,” Lyngdoh shared.
Another farmer, T. Taro, echoed her sentiments, stating that they sell their pineapples for Rs 20-22 each, though he hopes for further improvements in the coming years.
Farmers have been receiving various forms of support from the government, including training, platforms, and infrastructure to enhance their business.
The government has invested Rs 5.63 crore in infrastructure and Rs 1.39 crore in working capital, with Rs 78 lakh specifically allocated for pineapples until 2023. This investment has facilitated the export of 4.36 metric tons of pineapples to the Lulu Group in Abu Dhabi and close to 300 tons to EU countries, after being freeze-dried at the PRIME Hub in Ri Bhoi District.
Silwin A. Sangma from Tikrikilla noted that they now sell their pineapples at Rs 22-23 per kg, compared to the previous Rs 15-16 per kg. He mentioned that selling their produce through the Meg Farm Processing unit has become easier.
Sangma, who participated in the Pineapple Fest in New Delhi, revealed that they received a Rs 90 lakh loan last year to boost their business, attributing the increased demand for Meghalaya’s pineapples to their superior taste.
The government is actively supporting farmers through subsidies for plantation, interest-free loans, and other means. “The government identifies farmers and supports them with saplings, fencing materials, tools, equipment, and interest-free loans,” Sangma added.

spot_imgspot_img

Related articles

In this image released by the PMO, Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with a child as he is welcomed by members of the Indian...

In this image released by the PMO, Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with a child as he is welcomed...

Govt offers Rs 10,000 each to hawkers for relocation

Not an eviction drive but an enforcement drive: Sniawbhalang Dhar By Our Reporter SHILLONG, July 2: An under-fire state government...

Lapangap row: M’laya-Assam CMs on job to defuse tension

By Our Reporter SHILLONG, July 2: The chief ministers of Meghalaya and Assam have taken up the recent flare-up...

Hawkers’ body slams Paul for ‘obstruction’ remark

By Our Reporter SHILLONG, July 2: The Meghalaya and Greater Shillong Progressive Hawkers and Street Vendors Association (MGSPHSVA) on...