Meghalaya Aims to Lead India in Organic Farming Expansion

Shillong, India Aug 27, 2026 ALN: As Meghalaya seeks to reduce its dependence on chemical fertilizers, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, on Thursday, informed the Assembly that the State is poised to become the largest area under organic farming, hectare-wise, in the country.

Intervening during Question Hour on the third day of the Assembly session, Sangma said the certification process is currently underway and Meghalaya would receive the requisite certification in the near future. This move is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable agricultural practices that align with global trends toward organic farming.

“The whole world and the country are slowly moving towards organic farming owing to its benefits,” Sangma said, highlighting the increasing awareness and demand for organic produce among consumers. The shift towards organic farming is not just a local phenomenon; it reflects a global trend where consumers are becoming more health-conscious and environmentally aware. Organic farming avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, focusing instead on natural methods to enhance soil fertility and pest control.

Meghalaya, endowed with rich biodiversity and favorable climatic conditions, has the potential to lead in this sector. The Chief Minister mentioned that the State government is also discouraging the use of chemical fertilizers and that farming with fertilizers is permitted only in notified areas. This regulatory approach aims to ensure that organic farming practices are not only promoted but also adhered to within the state’s agricultural policies.

Earlier, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Timothy D Shira, replying to a question by Nongkrem MLA Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit on steps taken to check the unreasonable increase in fertilizer prices, said the sale of fertilizers is restricted to the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) notified by the government. The government’s intervention in regulating fertilizer prices is crucial, especially in a state where many farmers rely on these inputs for their agricultural productivity.

Shira also elaborated on the various steps taken by the government to check the increase in prices. By enforcing the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985, the government is taking a proactive stance to ensure that farmers are not exploited by market fluctuations. This order mandates that fertilizer prices be regulated and that distribution follows a structured approach to prevent shortages and ensure availability.

Furthermore, the government has initiated weekly inspections conducted by Fertilizer Inspectors to check the sale of fertilizers. These inspections are intended to enforce compliance with pricing regulations and to monitor the quality of fertilizers being sold in the market. Such measures are essential in maintaining a fair market environment for farmers and preventing the exploitation that can arise from unregulated pricing.

The push towards organic farming in Meghalaya is not only a response to local agricultural needs but also aligns with national policies aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture. The Indian government has been advocating for organic farming through various initiatives, recognizing its potential to enhance food security, improve farmers' income, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Meghalaya’s transition to organic farming could serve as a model for other states in India, particularly those with similar ecological and agricultural contexts. The state’s commitment to organic practices could lead to the development of niche markets for organic produce, both domestically and internationally. As consumers increasingly seek organic options, Meghalaya could capitalize on this trend, potentially boosting its economy and providing farmers with better income opportunities.

However, the transition to organic farming is not without challenges. Farmers must be educated and trained in organic practices, which may involve a steep learning curve. Additionally, there are concerns about the initial reduction in yields as farms transition away from chemical fertilizers. The government will need to provide support through training programs, access to organic inputs, and financial assistance during this transition period.

Moreover, the certification process for organic farming is rigorous and can take time. It requires farmers to adhere to specific guidelines and practices over a set period before they can market their products as organic. This process is crucial for building consumer trust in organic labels and ensuring that the state’s organic produce meets national and international standards.

In conclusion, Meghalaya’s ambition to become a leader in organic farming represents a significant shift in agricultural policy and practice. By reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and promoting sustainable farming methods, the state not only aims to improve the health of its ecosystems but also seeks to enhance the livelihoods of its farmers. The government’s proactive measures in regulating fertilizer prices and supporting the transition to organic methods are critical steps in achieving this vision. As Meghalaya moves forward, it will be essential to address the challenges of this transition while capitalizing on the opportunities that organic farming presents for the state’s agricultural future.