The Meghalaya government’s Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare recently completed its first sea shipment of 15 tonnes of Meghalaya ginger to Dubai’s Lulu Group in partnership with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). The Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company (FPC) played a crucial role in facilitating this initiative.
Established under the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for the North Eastern Region in 2017, the Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic FPC has witnessed significant growth over the years. With modern infrastructure for washing, slicing, drying, and packaging ginger, the FPC now supports over 500 member farmers from nine villages. The collective has seen a remarkable increase in revenue from ₹17 lakh in 2018-19 to ₹3.74 crore in 2023-24, highlighting the potential of farmer-led enterprises with the right support.
Abhishek Dev, Chairman of APEDA, emphasized the importance of sea shipments in enhancing the competitiveness of Indian agri-exports. He mentioned the development of a dedicated sea protocol to ensure cost competitiveness and expressed optimism about the reception of Indian shipments in the UAE market. Dev also encouraged stakeholders to participate in Gulf Food 2026 and showcase Indian ginger prominently.
Furthermore, Abdelkarim Sma, Country Director of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), highlighted the role of farmer-led cooperatives in creating sustainable livelihoods. He emphasized the importance of cooperatives in providing security and hope for the future, expressing pride in being part of their success.
The Meghalaya government is investing in the development of one of North East India’s first organically certified spice processing units in Bhoirymbong, Ri-Bhoi district. With funding support from IFAD, this ₹21 crore investment aims to enhance processing capacity for high-value spices like ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and chili to meet international standards.
The flag-off ceremony in Shillong was attended by key dignitaries including Abhishek Dev, Abdelkarim Sma, Revistar Kharumnuid, Chief Executive Director of Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic FPC, and B Mylliem Umlong, Director of Horticulture of Meghalaya.
Published on February 27, 2025.
