Gangtok, March 11: A media delegation from Meghalaya, currently on a six-day media exposure tour to Sikkim organised by Press Information Bureau (PIB) Shillong, today visited the Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Regional Research Station of the Spices Board at Tadong.
The visit provided the journalists with valuable insights into research, extension services and promotional initiatives aimed at strengthening spice cultivation and enhancing farmers’ income across the Northeast.
The delegation interacted with scientists and officials of the institute, including Dr. John Jo Varghese, Dr. T. N. Deka, and Dr. S. S. Bora, who briefed them on ongoing research programmes related to large cardamom cultivation, improved planting materials, pest and disease management, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Officials explained that the Indian Cardamom Research Institute plays a key role in strengthening large cardamom cultivation in the Eastern Himalayan region by developing improved varieties, promoting scientific farming methods and providing technical guidance to farmers.
Large cardamom is one of the most important cash crops grown in the Eastern Himalayan region, with Sikkim being the leading producer in the country. The crop is also gaining importance in Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, where favourable agro-climatic conditions make it suitable for cultivation and livelihood generation.
Officials highlighted that the Northeast region holds immense potential for spice cultivation owing to its fertile soil, rich biodiversity and suitable climate. To harness this potential, the Spices Board has been implementing several initiatives focused on expanding cultivation, improving productivity, strengthening post-harvest infrastructure and enhancing market access for farmers.
A major focus of the Board’s initiatives is to enhance the export potential of spices from the region. Indian spices enjoy strong demand in global markets, and the Board supports farmers, producer groups and exporters through quality improvement programmes, certification, training and market linkages. These initiatives enable farmers to access premium markets and obtain better prices for their produce.
Officials explained that strengthening the entire spice value chain – from cultivation and harvesting to processing, packaging and marketing – ucan significantly improve farmers’ income. Through capacity building programmes, technical guidance and infrastructure support, the Board is helping farmers adopt improved practices that enhance productivity and quality.
In Meghalaya, the Spices Board has been actively supporting the promotion of spices such as large cardamom, turmeric, ginger and black pepper in districts including Ri Bhoi district, West Garo Hills district, East Garo Hills district, and parts of the Jaintia Hills region.
Through collaboration with the Government of Meghalaya, the Board has been implementing initiatives such as farmer training programmes, distribution of quality planting materials, field demonstrations and technical guidance to improve cultivation practices and productivity.
The journalists were informed that the Government of Meghalaya has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Spices Board for the promotion of spice cultivation in the state, particularly focusing on expanding the cultivation of large cardamom and other high-value spices.
The delegation also learned about the contributions of Trinity Saioo, a recipient of the Padma Shri, who has played a significant role in promoting Lakadong turmeric cultivation in Meghalaya. Working closely with farmers and with support from the Spices Board, she has helped establish a strong network of turmeric growers and facilitated improved market access for their produce, significantly enhancing farmers’ incomes.
Officials further informed that many progressive farmers and entrepreneurs across Meghalaya are following similar initiatives and contributing to the growth of spice cultivation in the state. These grassroots efforts are helping strengthen the spice ecosystem while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural communities.
Officials also informed the journalists about an important infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening the spice value chain in the region. The first Spice Park in the Northeast is being developed at Pakyong, which will provide facilities for processing, grading, packaging and value addition of spices produced in the region.
The park is expected to help farmers and producer groups improve product quality and access better markets, thereby increasing the export potential of spices from the Northeast.
The delegation was also briefed about the proactive initiatives undertaken by the Government of Sikkim to promote spice cultivation in the state. Sikkim, known for its organic farming practices, has emerged as a leading producer of large cardamom and continues to support farmers through policies that encourage sustainable agriculture and improved cultivation practices.
The visit offered the journalists valuable insights into the scientific research, institutional support and policy initiatives that are helping transform spice cultivation into a viable and profitable livelihood option for farmers across the Northeast.
