NERAMAC to purchase 6 tonnes of pineapples from Tomdaksan FPO every week
Shillong, July 20: In a significant boost to Meghalaya’s agri-horticulture economy, a huge consignment of several trucks laden with organic pineapples produced by farmers of East Garo Hills was dispatched recently.
The pineapples produced by farmers of Tomdaksan Farmer Producer Organisation were the first consignment to the North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Limited (NERAMAC).
It has been considered a huge milestone for pineapple growers in the region, particularly from Dawachipit under Samanda Block of East Garo Hills.
Facilitated by the District Horticulture Office in Williamnagar, the initiative is a step towards scaling up pineapple trade with the motto “one pineapple at a time” from the district.
Meanwhile, NERAMAC has committed to purchasing 6 tonnes of pineapples from Tomdaksan FPO every week.
The guarantee of purchase has ensured steady market access and encouraged further cultivation of pineapples in the region.
One of the active FPOs in Meghalaya, Tomdaksan was formed during 2021-22.
Besides pineapple, the FPO is also engaged in the Khasi mandarin orange value chain, working alongside other regional FPOs such as Jirang FPC and East Ri Bhoi FPO.
Known for their natural sweetness, the pineapples of East Garo Hills has high juice content and low acidity, prompting high demand both within North East and outside.
Pineapples from the region have even hit international markets for the first time.
Farming of pineapples in the region is supported by several government schemes such as Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME), and One District One Product (ODOP).
The district has enhanced its capabilities in pineapple processing, packaging, and logistics due to the farmers’ effort and support from government schemes.
Pineapple is a designated ODOP product for East Garo Hills, thanks to its unique flavour profile sweeter and more aromatic than pineapples from other regions largely due to traditional cultivation methods with minimal chemical use.
Other prominent horticultural products from the district include Khasi mandarin, banana, black pepper, ginger, sweetcorn, and a variety of vegetables.
