Shillong, November 7 : In a major step toward promoting rural livelihoods and sustainable farming, the Meghalaya Aroma Mission under the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA), in collaboration with the CSIR–IHBT Aroma Mission, Palampur (Himachal Pradesh), inaugurated a new Field Distillation Unit (FDU) at Phlangwanbroi village, Mawsynram Block.
The FDU has been established for the Farmers Malai Sohmat Protection Group, marking a milestone in Meghalaya’s growing efforts to support local farmers through value-added agricultural initiatives.
The inaugural event was graced by Olan Singh Suin, MLA, Mawsynram Constituency, who served as the Chief Guest. He unveiled the commemorative plaque and formally inaugurated the distillation unit in the presence of key dignitaries including Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav, Director, CSIR–IHBT, Palampur, Sachin Shankar Gavade, IFS, Executive Director, MBDA, A.L. Bareh, BDO, Mawsynram, I. Saiborne, Joint Director, Agriculture (R&T), Bansara Mylliemngap, Joint Director, Horticulture, M. Dkhar, Joint Managing Director, Meghalaya Small Farmers’ Agri-Business Consortium (MSFAC), Aiban Swer, Director, MBDA.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from farmers of Phlangwanbroi and neighbouring villages, reflecting strong community involvement.
In his address, Olan Singh Suin expressed gratitude to the organisers and stakeholders for their collaborative effort. He emphasised the potential for lemongrass cultivation in the Mawsynram region and encouraged farmers to diversify into bay leaf and patchouli farming.
The MLA highlighted that this first distillation unit in the constituency would not only enhance agricultural productivity but also generate employment, attract visitors, and boost local economic growth. He urged farmers to focus on value addition and market linkage to ensure better financial returns and sustainable livelihoods.
The programme also featured a traditional dance performance by the youth of Phlangwanbroi village, celebrating the community’s cultural heritage.
Following the inauguration, guests attended a demonstration of the distillation process and toured the new facility.
Experts from MBDA and CSIR–IHBT introduced farmer-producer groups to operation protocols, quality assurance standards, and market opportunities in the essential oil and aromatic plant sector.
