The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, FEBRUARY 27, 2025
The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, has achieved a historic milestone with the first-ever sea shipment of 15 metric tons of Meghalaya Ginger to Dubai’s Lulu Group. This landmark export, facilitated in collaboration with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), underscores Meghalaya’s commitment to strengthening its agricultural exports and integrating its farmers into global value chains. The Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company (FPC) played a crucial role in executing this initiative, which was officially flagged off in a ceremonial event attended by dignitaries from APEDA, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Meghalaya’s agricultural sector has historically faced challenges such as fragmented landholding, limited credit access, and working capital constraints for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). However, strategic government interventions and cooperative efforts have enabled farmers to aggregate and market ginger collectively, demonstrating that farmer-led initiatives can drive scalable and sustainable growth.
Established in 2017 under the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for the North Eastern Region (MOVCD-NER), the Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic FPC has been instrumental in promoting Meghalaya’s organic produce. Initially operating with limited infrastructure, the FPC has significantly expanded its processing capabilities, incorporating modern washing, slicing, drying, and packaging facilities. Today, it supports over 500 member farmers across nine villages, ensuring better price realization and improved market access. Over the years, the collective has grown its revenue from Rs 17 lakh in 2018-19 to Rs 374 lakh in 2023-24, showcasing the immense potential of farmer-led enterprises when provided with the right support.
The flag-off ceremony, held in Shillong, was attended by key dignitaries, including Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA; Abdelkarim Sma, Country Director, IFAD; Revistar Kharumnuid, Chief Executive Director, Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic FPC; and B. MylliemUmlong, Director of Horticulture, Government of Meghalaya.
Abhishek Dev emphasized the importance of sea shipments in enhancing the competitiveness of Indian agri-exports. “Sea shipment is crucial as it ensures cost efficiency. We have developed a dedicated sea protocol, and I am confident that with close coordination among stakeholders, our shipments will be well received in the UAE market.” Reflecting on the recent Gulf Food 2024 event, he added, “There is immense enthusiasm for Indian products, and we have been invited as the partner country for the next edition. I encourage stakeholders to plan early participation in Gulf Food 2026 (January 26-30) to prominently showcase Indian ginger.” Highlighting the potential of organic exports, he noted, “The organic tag ensures a 30-40% higher price realization. APEDA is fully committed to supporting stakeholders in organic certification, and with Meghalaya’s own certification body, this process will now be more streamlined.” He further affirmed, “This is not a one-off event. We anticipate more such flag-offs as we continue expanding India’s agri-export footprint.”
Abdelkarim Sma, Country Director, IFAD, underscored the role of farmer-led cooperatives in fostering sustainable livelihoods. “Farmers are the owners of these cooperatives, and they provide security and hope for the future. The IFAD team and I are proud to be part of this success. I look forward to hearing from members about their journey so far and understanding their vision for the cooperative’s future.”
This achievement stands as a testament to the dedication of Meghalaya’s farmers, the unwavering support of the Department of Agriculture, and the collective commitment to strengthening the state’s agricultural exports. Recognizing the need for enhanced processing capacity, the state government is developing one of Northeast India’s first organically certified spice processing units in Bhoirymbong, Ri-Bhoi District. This ₹21 crore investment, with funding support from IFAD, will significantly enhance the capacity of FPOs, ensuring that high-value spices like ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and chili meet international standards.
APEDA’s continued support has been instrumental in trial marketing various commodities from Meghalaya, including GI-tagged Khasi Mandarin, organic pineapple, and now ginger. Its involvement in previous export consignments has provided crucial insights and facilitated market access, paving the way for successful international shipments.
With government initiatives focusing on infrastructure development, farmer training programs, and market access facilitation, Meghalaya is strengthening its agricultural ecosystem for long-term sustainability. As the state expands its global presence, these initiatives will ensure better remuneration for farmers, enhanced value addition, and economic growth.
