Shillong, Meghalaya – May 2: The ICAR-Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Kasaragod, Kerala, in collaboration with the Directorate of Horticulture, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and the Department of Soil & Water Conservation, Meghalaya, successfully organized a one-day Stakeholders Meeting on “Scientific Cultivation for Sustainable Production of Arecanut and Cocoa” at the Meghalaya Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (MAMETI), Upper Shillong, on May 2, 2025.

During the technical sessions, scientists from ICAR-CPCRI, Kasaragod, Kerala, and ICAR-CPCRI, Kahikuchi, Assam shared expert insights on various aspects of Arecanut and Cocoa cultivation:

“Arecanut Production Technologies” – Dr. Bhavishya, Scientist, CPCRI

“Plant Health Management in Arecanut” – Mr. Vinayaka Hedge, Head, Division of Crop Protection, CPCRI

“Prospects of Cocoa Cultivation in Meghalaya” – Dr. Alpana Das, Scientist In-Charge, ICAR-CPCRI, Kahikuchi, Assam

Additionally, key presentations on the local context were delivered by:

Dr. Balkho R. Marak, Assistant Soil and Water Conservation Officer, Shillong – “Current Status of Cocoa Cultivation in the State”

Smt. M. Ch. Marak, Assistant Director of Horticulture (PSC), Shillong – “Current Status of Arecanut Plantation in the State”

Smt graced the event. B. Mylliem Umlong, Director of Horticulture, as the Chief Guest. Over 100 stakeholders, including senior officials from the Directorate of Horticulture, the Agriculture Department, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), ATMA functionaries, and farmers from across Meghalaya, actively participated in the meeting.

Ahead of the stakeholder meeting, on May 1, 2025, the expert team conducted a field visit to the Budrot-affected Arecanut plantation at Nongmyndoo Village, West Khasi Hills District. During the visit, valuable insights and practical recommendations were shared with local farmers for effective prevention and control of Budrot/Crown rot in Arecanut.

The programme marked a significant step toward enhancing sustainable practices and improving the productivity of Arecanut and Cocoa cultivation in the region.