Shillong, April 10: Many have seen viral videos of tourists in Japan relishing premium strawberries like Amaou and Bijin-hime—varieties that are cultivated with highest of care and scientific precision and sold at jaw-dropping prices. A single Amaou strawberry, often called the ‘king’ of strawberries in Japan, can cost up to US $101, while a box of Bijin-hime can fetch as much as US $258. Although these varieties are available outside Japan, many still travel to the county to enjoy them fresh from the farms – because it’s not just about affordability, it’s about the experience.
Meghalaya hopes to replicate a similar model in its own strawberry farms, which produce some of the finest varieties in the country, including Camorosa, Sweet Charlie and Chandler – turning these high-value crop farms into Agro-tourism destinations.
From Sohliya to Syntung: The rise of Strawberry farming in Meghalaya
Few know that Meghalaya has emerged as one of India’s top strawberry-producing states. And the small village of Syntung in East Khasi Hills is known for producing one of the best strawberries in the state. The fruit is in high demand all over the world, and has economic advantages and Meghalaya’s climate is conducive for its cultivation.
While the strawberry revolution in the state started from the Sohliya village in Ri Bhoi district about two decades back, it is Syntung, under the Mawkynrew C&RD Block, that is making headlines today. In fact, it even hosted the Strawberry Festival in 2024, drawing tourists and locals to the village.
Meghalaya ranks fifth in India in strawberry production. According to data from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, the state produced approximately 1,220 metric tonnes of strawberries in 2024. This marks an increase from 1,196 metric tonnes in 2023. In the last 10 years, Meghalaya’s cultivation of strawberry has grown steadily, increasing from 740 metric tonnes in 2014 to 1,220 metric tonnes in 2024. The first advanced estimates for 2025 have already put state’s production at 900 metric tonnes.
With 132 hectares of land under cultivation, the state contributes approximately 4.26% of the country’s total strawberry production. For context, India’s total production stood at 21,000 MT in 2023–24.
To increase the production, the state government has decided to invest additional Rs. 3 crores into strawberry cultivation across the state. Additionally, in 2024-25, the State government distributed over 1.28 million strawberry plants to 1,175 farmers.
Captivated by the crystal clear waters of Wahrashi Falls at Syntung under Mawkynrew C&RD Block. What a fulfilling trip meeting people, SHGs, strawberry farmers and ending the trip jamming with the talented musicians of the Syntung Sports & Cultural Club. Presenting to you… pic.twitter.com/UgEmPQkjHJ
— Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) April 9, 2025
Chief Minister’s visit to Syntung & Agri-Tourism
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma made his maiden visit to the Syntung village on Wednesday to meet the farmers and witness the strawberry cultivation as well as implementation of the government’s initiatives, and to explore its tourism potential. He also tasted the aromatic strawberries, fresh from the farms.
However, for years, the farmers of Syntung and surrounding villages have battled against unpredictable markets and perishability issues, their bright red strawberries struggling to find the right buyers.
To reduce post-harvest losses and improve shelf life, the Chief Minister announced plans to set up cold storage and a processing unit under the CM Elevate initiative. Under the same initiative, market linkage with Guwahati traders has been established and farmers are now supplying the strawberries at Rs. 200 per kg instead of the earlier Rs. 150 per kg to local markets. Also, the village has partnered with the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Shillong, for development of value-added products such as jams, juices, compotes, chips, and candies with procurement price at Rs. 300 per kg.
Additionally, a Rs. 5 lakh grant was announced for the construction of a Self-Help Group (SHG) office in the village. “Strong community institutions empower people, especially women, and help them access financial services, training, and markets,” the CM said.
He also announced that the village will be developed into an Agro-tourism destination.
Strengthening Health and Education Infrastructure
Later, the Chief Minister inspected the Syntung Sub-Centre and expressed his appreciation for the work done by health workers in remote areas. He also informed that the government is committed to upscaling health infrastructure and providing accommodation facilities for health department professionals.
He also inspected the Syntung Football Ground and visited Syntung Upper Primary School, which currently has 151 students and 8 teachers. He interacted with students and teachers and appreciated the school’s efforts in providing holistic education. He announced Rs. 3 lakh under the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund (CMSDF) for the purchase of musical instruments and assured financial support for infrastructure improvement.
“My visits to rural areas are not just about listening to your problems, but also about fostering a stronger relationship between the government and our farmers. I want to hear your suggestions and concerns, so we can work together to drive meaningful development,” Sangma said, adding, “We have been working tirelessly to support our people in rural areas. In 2018, we had 5,000 Self-Help Groups, but today, we have over 50,000 SHGs. Our funding has also increased significantly, from Rs 30 crore to Rs 1,000 crores.”
Additionally, the issue of timely wage distribution for job card holders under MGNREGA was also addressed, where the Chief Minister assured that wages would be distributed on time, with no delays, and that the issue would be resolved before Easter.
Music Binds All
Earlier, as Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma entered the Syntung village, he had to put on his musical hat as he was welcomed with a very lively song at the Wahrashi waterfall. Mesmerized by the extraordinary setting and the unique music, Chief Minister joined the band and played the guitar.
Enthusiastic about the band’s unique combination of guitars, violins, drums, and mandolins, he announced Rs. 5 lakh for the purchase of new musical instruments. “Music is not just culture—it is identity, it is expression, and it can be an economic activity. I am proud to be a member of this band today,” he said with a smile.
Find latest news from every corner of Northeast India at hubnetwork.in, your online source for breaking news, video coverage.
Also, Follow us on-
Twitter-twitter.com/nemediahub
Youtube channel- www.youtube.com/@NortheastMediaHub2020
Instagram- www.instagram.com/ne_media_hub
Download our app from playstore – Northeast Media Hub
