Meghalaya has launched a ₹240 crore initiative known as the Meghalaya Floriculture Mission. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma believes this scheme can generate ₹600 crore in returns within five years. This marks a major step toward transforming the state into a prominent flower-producing region in the Northeast.
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Meghalaya Floriculture Mission set to empower 25,000 farmers
CM Sangma announced that the mission targets over 25,000 farmers, with a focus on women and youth. The state will provide planting materials, training, and market access to all participants. These efforts aim to make flower cultivation a viable and profitable livelihood.
Meghalaya’s climate and soil conditions suit the cultivation of high-value flowers such as roses, gerberas, chrysanthemums, carnations, and orchids. These flowers are in demand across major Indian cities and global markets. The government has identified clusters in Ri-Bhoi, East Khasi Hills, West Jaintia Hills, and South West Garo Hills for the rollout.
₹600 crore return expected through floriculture
Chief Minister Sangma expressed confidence that Meghalaya Floriculture Mission will yield strong financial returns. By using a cluster-based approach and improving value chains, the state expects a revenue boost of ₹600 crore within the planned timeframe.
The mission works through the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS), in collaboration with agriculture, horticulture, and forest departments. Its focus areas include organic cultivation, cold storage creation, packaging centres, and market connectivity with cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Bengaluru.
Sangma said Meghalaya currently contributes only a small share to India’s flower market. However, this mission can elevate the state’s standing in India’s ₹20,000 crore floriculture industry.
Farmers to benefit from infrastructure and training
The mission includes the construction of greenhouses, cold chains, shade nets, and collection centres. These tools will improve productivity and reduce wastage. Training sessions will teach farmers modern flower farming techniques and post-harvest practices.
In addition to infrastructure, the state will encourage floriculture entrepreneurs. Public-private partnerships will help connect farmers with buyers, including exporters and large retailers. This will ensure better prices and consistent income.
Sangma said that through these efforts, Meghalaya aims to reduce its reliance on traditional crops that bring lower profits. Flower farming, he noted, offers quicker returns and greater market value.
Tourism and floriculture to work hand in hand
An important part of the Meghalaya Floriculture Mission is its link to tourism. The state plans to develop flower gardens near homestays and tourist spots. This strategy will attract visitors while creating new income sources for rural communities.
Pilot gardens in East Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills have already increased tourist visits. These projects showcase how floriculture can support eco-tourism and enhance Meghalaya’s appeal.
Locals will be trained to manage these gardens and offer flower-themed experiences to tourists. This initiative merges agriculture with hospitality and promotes sustainable development.
Environment-friendly farming for future generations
Floriculture suits Meghalaya’s push for climate-resilient farming. These crops need less water and grow well in smaller areas. By encouraging organic practices, the government also aims to protect soil health and biodiversity.
The state will promote bee-keeping alongside flower farming to support pollination. Sangma said this dual approach benefits the environment while adding value to rural livelihoods.
Plans are underway to open a Floriculture Research and Development Centre in Shillong. This centre will help develop new flower species and improve training and farming methods.
Mission aligned with Meghalaya’s agri-vision
The Meghalaya Floriculture Mission follows the success of past initiatives like the Aroma Mission and the Lakadong Turmeric Mission. These projects helped raise farm incomes and boost exports.
With floriculture now added to the list, Meghalaya is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture in the Northeast. CM Sangma said the state’s focus remains on innovation, self-reliance, and improving farmers’ lives.
Meghalaya is also seeking support from national bodies like NABARD and the National Horticulture Board. Their backing will help scale the mission and extend its benefits across more districts.
With a clear plan, strong leadership, and active community participation, the Meghalaya Floriculture Mission is set to bring transformative change. A ₹240 crore investment could blossom into ₹600 crore returns, reshaping Meghalaya’s rural economy through flowers.
This mission does more than grow plants; it nurtures opportunity, sustainability, and economic resilience.
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