Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 326/06

P.R. KYNDIAH VISITS STRAWBERRY FARM AT DEWLIEH

The Union Minister of Tribal Affairs and DONER and Chairman of the NEC, Mr. P. R. Kyndiah visited the NEC supported Strawberry Farm at Dewlieh Horticulture Farm, Umsning, Ri Bhoi District on April 5, 2006. He was accompanied by the Meghalaya Minister for Horticulture etc, Mr. H. D. R. Lyngdoh and officials of the NEC.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kyndiah lauded the efforts of the State Government for initiatives taken for the cultivation of Strawberry in the State. Informing that out of the estimated cost of Rs.308 lakhs sanctioned by in August 2004, NEC has so far released, in the first phase, Rs.136.80 lakhs. Adding that the direct and ancillary activities arising from strawberry farming will go a long way in improving the economic conditions of the rural farmers, Mr Kyndiah assured all possible assistance in releasing pending funds and further improve infrastructure of the Dewlieh Horticulture Farm in relation to strawberry farming.

It may be added, that by the time the project is completed, the Strawberry cultivation area is expected to cover more than 200 ha with about 11 million plants and benefit 453 families making it one of the largest farms of its kind in the North East. The ultimate production is estimated at about 25 million kg.

The economic benefit to the farming community from this project will be enormous - gross income is estimated at Rs. 7.2 lakhs per annum. In the first phase 7.72 ha covering 123 farmers have been brought under cultivation. Farmers are assisted with essential inputs like training, quality planting materials, drip irrigation and water storage. Additional assistance is also given in the form of technical and supervisory support, centralized collection, cold storage facilities packing and marketing support. During the current year an additional area of more than 14 ha is expected to be covered under the 2nd phase.

As part of the visit, the delegation also had an informal interactive session with the local farmers.

Press Release No. 327/06

17TH APRIL DECLARED HOLIDAY IN EAST KHASI HILLS

All State Government Offices, Revenue and Magisterial Courts and Educational Institutions of East Khasi will remain closed on the 17th of April, 2006 on account of Shad Suk Mynsiem.

This was informed by the Commissioner & Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, General Administration Department.

Press Release No. 328/06

INSIST ON ISI MARK

Upon receiving information that Ceramic tiles manufactured indigenously as well as imported from other countries are being dumped into the Indian markets, the Deputy Commissioner (Supply), East Khasi Hills District has informed that these tiles do not conform to the relevant BIS standards, which are at present voluntary in nature. Hence, common consumers do not get quality product for the amount paid.

Therefore, all organizations as well as the consumers are requested to insist for ISI marked of Ceramic tiles (Walls and Floors) while placing purchase orders.