Shillong, May 16: Meghalaya Cabinet Minister Marcuise Marak has spotlighted coffee and cocoa as high-value crops that could revolutionize the state’s rural economy and provide sustainable livelihoods to farmers.

During a recent visit to Dura Kalakgre village in West Garo Hills, Marak inspected coffee plantations undertaken by the Soil and Water Conservation Department under the state scheme. “I went to check how the plantation is doing. The coffee is growing well, and the villagers are optimistic,” said Marak, adding that the project falls under the North Tura constituency represented by Speaker Thomas A. Sangma.

Calling it a “sustainable livelihood revolution,” the Minister posted on social media, “This high-value crop is more than just a beverage — it’s a sustainable livelihood revolution for our farmers. The Garo Hills’ elevation makes it ideal for specially Arabica — Chandragiri and S9 varieties. With the government initiative, we could rival international coffee regions. The rich aroma of progress is in the air.”

Speaking to reporters, Marak said coffee cultivation is expanding across the state — in Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi, East Khasi Hills, and Jaintia Hills, with strong potential for Arabica and other climate-suited varieties.

“The department’s goal is not only income generation but also environmental protection,” he noted. “Dura Kalakgre is part of the Ganol River catchment, which supplies water to Tura. This initiative will help safeguard spring sources and water supply schemes.”

He clarified that the coffee project is solely managed by the Soil and Water Conservation Department, and is part of broader efforts across departments including Agriculture, Horticulture, Forest, MDMA, and C&RD to promote sustainable livelihoods.

Marak also visited Aguragre village to inspect a cocoa plantation, describing it as a “promising alternative” for farmers. “Cocoa is in high demand, and Cadbury has shown interest. The plants are thriving, some already bearing fruit within three years of planting,” he said. The plantation spans about 5–6 acres on private land and is currently maintained by the department.

“Once the crop is fully established, it will be handed over to the beneficiary farmer,” he said adding that the entire cost has been borne by the department, without any subsidy.

The Minister sees potential for cocoa cultivation in other low-lying areas like Ri-Bhoi. “Cocoa thrives in warm climates. In Aguragre, farmers are growing it under the shade of arecanut trees — an ideal model for mixed cropping. This is a real opportunity to diversify farmer incomes,” he said.

With both coffee and cocoa projects gaining ground, Marak believes Meghalaya is on track to emerge as a niche player in premium crop production while building a stronger, greener rural economy.

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