Meghalaya launched its first latex processing unit in Garo Hills. Located in Daldagre, West Garo Hills, this new unit will directly benefit around 3,000 rubber farmers in the region. It marks a turning point in the local rubber economy, reducing dependency on other states for processing.
The Garo Hills latex unit has been built by the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA) with support from the Rubber Board of India. Officials see this project as a way to improve farmer income and create local jobs.
Read More: Arunachal Home Minister Meets Governor Over TCL Security
Local Latex Processing Begins in Garo Hills
Before this facility, rubber growers in Garo Hills had to send their latex to Assam or Kerala. This caused delays and reduced profits. Now, farmers can process latex locally and get better rates.
At the launch, MBMA officials said this unit will not only help thousands of farmers but also create indirect jobs in transport, packaging, and collection work.
“This is a big step for our farmers. They can now earn more and waste less,” an MBMA officer said during the ceremony.
Garo Hills Latex Unit Built With Modern Tools
The Daldagre unit uses modern machines to process latex into high-quality rubber sheets. These sheets are ready for sale in national and global markets. The factory handles latex weighing, testing, drying, and packaging.
Farmers can bring latex to the unit, where staff check quality and offer payment based on current rates. This transparent system builds trust between growers and processors.
A training area has also been added to teach better tapping, processing, and plantation methods.
Rubber Farming Set to Grow in Meghalaya
Rubber farming in Garo Hills has grown in the past 20 years. Still, poor access to processing units held farmers back. The Garo Hills latex unit changes this by cutting transport costs and adding local value.
Data from the Rubber Board shows Meghalaya has more than 15,000 hectares of rubber plantations. Garo Hills has the most. But without processing units, farmers often sold raw latex at low prices.
Now, with local facilities, growers can keep more profit. Officials believe this change will also attract youth to rubber farming and small businesses.
Government and Rubber Board Join Hands
The state government gave land and funds for the project. The Rubber Board helped with training and technology. Together, they made the Garo Hills latex unit a reality.
Officials from the Rubber Board said the unit meets all safety and quality standards. They hope to use it as a model for other districts in the Northeast.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma earlier said value-added farming is key to boosting incomes. With this unit, farmers can control more of the rubber supply chain and earn better.
Farmers Share Their Hopes
Rubber growers from across Garo Hills joined the launch. Many were hopeful about the unit’s impact.
Benedict Marak, a farmer from Rongram, said, “Earlier, we sold latex cheaply to middlemen. Now we can process it here and get fair prices.”
The Rubber Board also plans regular training sessions at the unit. These will help farmers use better methods and stay updated on market trends.
Unit Supports Jobs and Local Growth
This processing unit helps more than just farmers. Local youth can find work in handling, packaging, and managing latex. Transport workers will also benefit as latex moves between farms and the factory.
The project is part of the larger goal to link farming with industry. Officials said that agro-based processing like this boosts rural income and slows migration.
Plans for Expansion Already Underway
Due to high demand, MBMA plans to increase the unit’s capacity in the future. More farmers from nearby districts have shown interest in selling their latex here.
The government is also looking to build similar units in other rubber-growing areas. If successful, this model may be adopted across Northeast India.
The Garo Hills latex unit is already helping farmers earn more. It is also strengthening the local rubber economy and setting an example for rural industries.
A Bright Future for Rubber Farmers
With this new facility, Meghalaya takes a bold step in supporting its farmers. The unit brings processing closer to plantations, saves time, and puts more money in growers’ hands.
More importantly, it gives farmers confidence. They can now grow rubber knowing they have local support and access to markets.
As the first rubber sheets roll out of Daldagre, the region sees not just a product—but a symbol of progress.
Read More: Shillong Teer Results July 28: Lucky Numbers Revealed