Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday said that Meghalaya’s pineapples and other organic produce have the potential to make a mark on the global stage. He was speaking at the 'Meghalaya Pineapple Festival-2025' held in New Delhi, which also saw the participation of Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and senior officials from both the Centre and the State.
The event began with the signing of several MoUs aimed at enhancing the marketing and export of Meghalaya’s pineapples. A booklet highlighting the state’s progress in the agriculture sector was also released.
During his address, Chouhan hailed the taste and quality of Meghalaya’s pineapples as “distinct” and “world-class” and said the hardworking farmers of the state deserve national recognition. “From fruits to spices, tea, turmeric, ginger, and even mushrooms, most of Meghalaya’s produce is organic. It’s time we push these products to global markets,” he said.
He assured that the Centre will fully support the state's efforts to export its agricultural produce and that private sector involvement will be encouraged. “We are committed to the development of the Northeast. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally invested in ensuring this region gets its due,” he added.
The Union Minister also said he will soon visit Meghalaya with a team of agricultural scientists to assess on-ground challenges. He recalled that during his earlier visit under the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan', farmers had raised concerns about the short shelf life of perishable produce. “ICAR scientists have been instructed to address this. Research is already underway,” he said.
Chouhan also backed the proposal to airlift agricultural produce from Meghalaya to key markets and said train transport options would also be explored. Plans to establish local processing units and increase per-hectare pineapple productivity were also discussed.
Wrapping up his address, the Minister urged youth to take up agri-startups and encouraged citizens to choose Meghalaya’s organic products. “Our products are the best in the world, we shouldn’t hesitate in using them,” he said.
