Shillong, 19 June (HS): Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday projected the Northeast as a future growth hub of the country, asserting that the region can spearhead India’s development through sustainable agriculture, premium organic products and environmentally responsible economic expansion.

Speaking after inaugurating the Northeast’s largest organic spice processing plant of the Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company Ltd. at Bhoirymbong in Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district, Sitharaman said the global agricultural landscape is shifting towards quality-driven production, creating significant opportunities for the region.

She observed that the future of farming belongs to producers who offer cleaner, traceable and trusted products rather than merely focusing on large-scale output. According to her, the Northeast’s rich natural resources and traditional farming practices place it in a strong position to benefit from this emerging trend.

Highlighting Meghalaya’s growing prominence in organic agriculture, the Finance Minister noted that the state enjoys a distinct advantage in international markets due to the credibility associated with its produce. She said consumers worldwide are increasingly willing to pay a premium for products backed by sustainability, authenticity and ecological responsibility.

Sitharaman further stated that Meghalaya’s expanding spice sector demonstrates how economic progress can be achieved without compromising environmental conservation. Emphasising the need for balanced development, she underlined the importance of living in harmony with nature while pursuing growth.

Referring to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, she said the journey towards a “Viksit Bharat” requires contributions from every region, with the Northeast expected to play a pivotal role. She also expressed confidence that the region could emerge as a leader in the country’s development narrative.

The minister stressed that enhanced processing infrastructure and stronger farmer cooperatives would help cultivators, especially women engaged in traditional agriculture, secure better returns and access international markets. She added that value addition can enable local entrepreneurs to build globally recognised brands around Meghalaya’s organic products.

The newly commissioned spice processing facility is expected to strengthen the state’s organic farming ecosystem by improving value addition, expanding market access and boosting incomes of farmers cultivating crops such as Lakadong turmeric, ginger and black pepper. The project is also seen as a significant step towards increasing agricultural exports and generating sustainable livelihood opportunities across the region.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash