Present scenario of Ginger Farming in West- Garo Hills District Meghalaya: An Analysis

Abstract

One of the key species grown in the North-East is ginger. The rural agricultural populations' livelihood comes from the cultivation of ginger, which also helps with socio-economic advancement. Farmer endeavors and the expansion of the production base are encouraged by the favourable soil and climatic characteristics of some of the chosen agro-climatic zones. However, there are some limitations on ginger production and marketing, especially from the perspective of farmers. This paper attempt to analyse the contemporary scenario of ginger farming in West-Garo Hills District of Meghalaya. The study is primarily undertaken from farmer's perspective. In the process of doing the same, constraints of the ginger growers are also taken into consideration. The study is based on both primary as well as secondary data. Ginger growers were selected based on non-probabilistic convenience sampling procedure. Desired responses were obtained with the help of structured schedule. It was observed that increasing input cost primarily affect the ginger growers. There is scope for improvement in the form of value addition at the growers' level, farmers can add significant value by processing and diversifying their raw ginger supply. The study's suggestive conclusion is that ginger-based agro-entrepreneurship should be promoted. The study suggest for the development of favourable market conditions to the growers' greater advantage. Absence of well-organized markets set up also acts as impediments in the process of production and marketing of ginger.