Shillong: Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the largest organic spice-processing plant in Northeast India on Friday. Located in Lumdaitkhla village within the Ri-Bhoi district, the facility represents a 30-crore investment by the Eastern Ri Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company Ltd.
The project received funding and implementation support through the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency under the FOCUS programme and the International Fund for Agricultural Development. By focusing on ginger, turmeric, and black pepper, the plant is set to process over 10,000 metric tonnes of spices annually. This infrastructure is expected to directly support the livelihoods of approximately 5,500 local farmers.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma attended the ceremony alongside Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang. During the event, multiple agreements were signed to improve the marketing and distribution of the processed products. Sangma emphasized the state government’s dedication to modernizing agriculture, noting that the administration is committed to helping farmers improve product quality, increase production, and access better markets. He stated, "The government has been working extensively to empower farmers, improve productivity, and enhance income generation opportunities through modern agricultural practices and value-addition infrastructure."
Sitharaman praised the progress of the Ri-Bhoi district, which is currently categorized as an aspirational district. She highlighted that the facility will help Meghalaya’s agricultural output reach broader national and international markets. She specifically pointed to the global recognition of Lakadong turmeric as a prime example of the state's potential to establish itself as a premier hub for high-quality organic spices.
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