SHILLONG, July 27 NNN: Meghalaya is rooted in a rich organic farming tradition and the central Government wants this tradition to be nurtured further so that Meghalaya can be branded as a \u201c100 percent organic farming State.\u201d
\nUnder Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, JS Deepak, said there is immense trade potential for farm products cultivated organically. \u201cMake Meghalaya into a State producing 100 percent organic farm product,\u201d Deepak added.
\nHe said there is a growing demand for organically produced goods in Europe and America and these markets have turned its eye towards India which is now focusing on organically produce farm items.
\n\u201cIn the past 10 years India has become as destination of organic farm produces for foreign markets in Europe and America and this market is growing 30 percent at annual compound rate. The export market is booming,\u201d he informed a gathering of entrepreneurs here in Shillong.
\nThe Under Secretary said that the Ministry of trade and commerce would also look into issues that come into the way in realizing States taking to organic farming.
\nHe informed that there are 24 certificate centres in India authenticating organic farm produces, but none in the Northeast. Deepak said the Ministry would soon try set up a certificate centre in the region so that farmers have access to it. Citing the case of Lakadong turmeric and also other organic produces from Meghalaya, Deepak said, unless these products are certified by a certification agency about their organic origin they would not get the desired price at the all India level and also markets abroad.
\nDeepak said once the framers applies for the certificate there is a window period of three years after which the certificate is issued based on adherence of the criteria laid for issue of such certificates.
\n\u201cFarmers must be encouraged to take up organic farming as there is a ready market and the Ministry would not only encourage but help such endeavors,\u201d Deepak promised.<\/p>\n\n