Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 540/05

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR PASSION FRUITS AT WEST KHASI HILLS

Meghalaya Minister for Horticulture etc., Mr. H.D.R. Lyngdoh has inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Passion fruits at Mawkawah and Khlieh Mawlieh, West Khasi Hills District recently.

It may be mentioned that this Centre will provide training to farmers to make them aware of the advantages of using organic manure and water preservation. All matters relating to the Centre will be supervised by the Department for one year after which farmers will have to stand on their own feet. However, farmers who wish to avail loans will be assisted by the Department.

Mr. Lyngdoh, in his speech, informed the people that the State Government, with the financial assistance of the Government of India, has decided to launch the scheme of Centre for Excellence, one for each District, where farmers will be encouraged to cultivate fruit and vegetable species of low volume but which could be able to procure high cost in the market. Mr. Lyngdoh further informed that plantation of passion fruit sapplings in the cultivation areas has been earmarked for the purpose and the Horticulture Department has also launched and rejuvenated the cultivation of various types of vegetables all over the state using this latest technology.

Earlier, Dr. G. Dkhar, DAO, Nongstoin delivered the welcome address. The keynote address was presented by Mr. R. Kumar, DHO, Nongstoin. Others who spoke on the occasion were Mr. H.S. Lyngdoh, MLA, Mr. N. Nongdhar, MDC, Mr. S. Thongni, MDC and Mr. P. Gogoi, Director of Horticulture.

The function was chaired by Mr. D. K. Dkhar, Deputy Commissioner, West Khasi Hills District.