Meghalaya Forest Training School Launches Agar Cultivation Initiative to Boost Rural Economy
Baiza, Meghalaya: The Meghalaya Forest Training School in Baiza has introduced a comprehensive training program designed to enhance local farmers’ skills in agar cultivation. The initiative, organized by the Forest and Environment Department’s Research and Training Wing and supported by the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA), aims to educate 1,200 farmers across 20 blocks on effective agar farming techniques.
Program Highlights:
- Agar Overview: Agar, an aromatic resin extracted from the tropical evergreen agar tree, is highly valued for its fragrance and medicinal uses. It has been a sought-after commodity for over 2,000 years, utilized in incense, perfumes, cosmetics, and traditional medicine.
- Training Scope: The program covers nursery management, plantation techniques, post-harvest processing, and extraction methods for agar chips. It includes practical demonstrations and visits to established agar plantations.
- Economic Benefits: This initiative supports Meghalaya’s ambition to reach a $10 billion economy by 2028. By fostering agar cultivation, it aims to provide sustainable income sources and employment, thereby strengthening the rural economy.
- Training Schedule: The sessions, spanning until October 17, will involve 50 farmers from each of the 20 blocks, with each session lasting two days.
HC Chaudhary, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, highlighted the economic potential of agar cultivation, noting Meghalaya’s suitable environmental conditions and existing agar forests. The program is expected to enhance agricultural practices, contribute to economic development, and promote sustainable livelihoods for local farmers.
