7 days ago
Floriculture Mission 1.0 set to make Meghalaya NE's flower hub
Shillong: Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma on Tuesday announced that the state govt has earmarked Rs 240 crore over the next three years under Floriculture Mission 1.0, aiming to transform the state into a leading floriculture hub in the Northeast and across India.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Speaking during a visit to Mawkriah village in East Khasi Hills, the CM emphasised the mission's goal of making floriculture a high-value, climate-resilient, and sustainable livelihood option.
Launched in March 2024, the mission targets over 3,000 farmers, offering a Rs 7 lakh subsidy package that includes inputs, infrastructure, and training. Nearly 500 farmers have already benefited from the programme.
"This is the highest investment any government has made in floriculture in Meghalaya.
We expect direct profit generation of Rs 600 crore through this mission over the next few years," Sangma said.
The scheme focuses on cultivating high-value flowers such as orchids — dendrobium, cymbidium, vanda, and phalaenopsis — and oriental lilium, which are in high demand both domestically and globally. Meghalaya's unique agro-climatic conditions, blending tropical and temperate elements, make it ideal for such crops.
To ensure quality and sustainability, the govt has partnered with two experienced service providers — Darjeeling Gardens and North Bengal Floritech — who will offer technical expertise, high-quality planting materials, infrastructure support, and assured market linkage through a three-year buyback arrangement.
"Region-specific flower clusters are being developed using scientific cultivation techniques. We are building on the state's natural strengths and innovating with improved systems," Sangma added.
The floriculture mission is part of Meghalaya's broader agricultural vision, which includes successful initiatives like the Lakadong Turmeric Mission.
