Agriculture & Spice Plantations

• Cash Crops:

• • Ginger: Meghalaya is a significant producer of high-quality ginger, particularly the 'Nadia' variety, known for its high yield and low fiber content.
  • Turmeric: The state is globally renowned for Lakadong Turmeric, a unique variety with exceptionally high curcumin content (around 7.4%), making it highly valuable. Its cultivation is concentrated in the Nongbah-Shangpung belt of Jaintia Hills.
  • Black Pepper: Grown in mixed cropping systems, particularly in the Khasi Hills and North Garo Hills, often using trees as support for the vines. The Garo Hills black pepper is known for its intense aroma and flavor.
  • Areca Nut: A traditional cash crop.
  • Potatoes: Cultivated with initiatives like the Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI) supporting farmers in increasing potato production and value addition.
  • Cotton, Jute, Mesta: Traditional fiber crops, especially in Garo Hills.