Northeast Desk, 13th December: The Directorate of Horticulture and Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing Board orchestrated a ceremony to flag off 20 metric tonnes of Khasi Mandarin bound for Dubai. This initiative, aimed at enhancing trade and commerce by tapping into foreign markets, marks a substantial increase from last year’s export of 1 tonne of Khasi Mandarin to Doha and Bahrain.
Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Meghalaya’s Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, graced the flagging-off ceremony as the chief guest at the Integrated Agriculture Training Centre (IATC) in Upper Shillong. She emphasized the government’s commitment to boost Khasi Mandarin exports, highlighting a focus on organic farming to rebuild the confidence of farming communities and provide financial assistance to growers.
Lyngdoh expressed optimism about the significant growth in exports, stating, “At one point, we would only, on trial, internationally export 1.5 MT to 2 MT of Khasi Mandarin; today, we are talking of 20 MT. This step will instill a sense of security in our farmers, telling them that we will grow together and benefit together.”
Agriculture Secretary Isawanda Laloo underscored Meghalaya’s unique agro-climatic conditions that favor the growth of various fruits and crops. Laloo highlighted the vast potential for promoting organic farming of Khasi Mandarin, especially considering the traditional cultivation methods still prevalent in the state.
Sunita Rai, representing the Directorate of Horticulture, stressed the importance of growing foreign exports for business potential, considering them as “stepping stones to success.” She mentioned that Khasi Mandarin is poised to be exported through commercial shipments soon. Additionally, Rai disclosed that APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) has plans to popularize a few other local fruits in the near future.