Staff Reporter

Shillong, Aug 13: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today inaugurated the Oyster Mushroom Cluster at Mendipathar in North Garo Hills.

The project, constructed at a cost of Rs 10 crore, aims to encourage mushroom cultivation. Through this intervention, close to 1000 farmers will benefit in the first phase.

The project is being implemented by the Mendipathar Multipurpose Cooperative Society, led by Sister Rose, and is funded by the SFRUTI scheme from MSME, with viability gap funding of Rs 3 crore from the state government.

Speaking on the occasion, the CM said that the demand for mushrooms is increasing worldwide, and the establishment of such a unit will be rewarding for farmers. He stated that the government has been initiating various programs to support farmers.

Encouraging farmers to take up mushroom cultivation, he said the government will provide training and support to interested individuals and organizations.

During the program, he also flagged off pickup vehicles and barrels that will be used to collect rubber. He noted that the North and East Garo Hills region is engaged in large-scale rubber production, and the government will support value addition, enabling farmers to earn higher incomes.

A rubber Cinx Unit was also allocated to the Mendipathar Multipurpose Cooperative Society.