Shillong, Feb 28: Meghalaya kicked off its first Spice Festival at Jio World Drive BKC in Mumbai on Saturday, sending a 140‑member farmers’ and entrepreneurs’ delegation to pitch organic produces to national and overseas buyers.
“You come and interact with our entrepreneurs and farmers—you realise what authenticity is, what sincerity is, what quality is. Fundamentally, our farmers respect nature…that’s why we have the cleanest rivers, cleanest villages,” Chief Secretary Shakil P Ahammed said on the occasion.
Agriculture Commissioner Vijay Kumar D said Meghalaya turmeric reaches the US, Middle East and Europe, with ginger exports to Singapore.
“We want buyers who believe in sustainable agriculture…give the right price to our farmers. We have the best turmeric in the world.”
He noted a large processing unit will open soon.
National Turmeric Board secretary N Bhavani Sri said exporters are already sourcing Lakadong turmeric for curcumin and oil. The festival, part of a broader push under Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, highlights spices, tourism and culture as growth drivers.
