Tura, Feb 6: The Tura Agri-Horticulture Society has organized a Horticulture Show cum Exhibition and Flower Arrangement event, which began on Thursday and will conclude on Friday.
The event, held after a gap of five years, aims to bring together flower enthusiasts, local farmers, and producers to showcase their products and skills.
Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills, Jagdish Chelani, was the Chief Guest, accompanied by District Horticulture Officer (DHO) Thera Ch. Sangma and Joint Director B. Sungo.
The exhibition featured a wide variety of flowers and plants, categorized into ten segments, including:
•Vegetable Crops
•Potted Flowers (Perennial & Annual)
•Foliage Plants
•Cacti/Succulents
•Bonsai Plants
•Orchids
•Dry Flower Arrangements
•Fresh Flower Arrangements
Additionally, local producers and farmers set up stalls selling vegetables, strawberries, and mushrooms, with Tinash Agro Industries being one of the key exhibitors. A Spice Corner was also introduced, displaying cassia, cinnamon, large cardamom, ginger, black pepper, and other spices. Speaking about this initiative, Sanyang A. Sangma, ADH (MKT), Tura, highlighted the importance of educating people about different spices, noting that many are unaware of the distinctions between cassia and true cinnamon.
The last Horticulture Show was held before the COVID-19 pandemic, making this edition a significant revival. The Tura Agri-Horticulture Society, originally formed in 1998, had remained dormant for several years. However, under the leadership of DHO Thera Ch. Sangma, who was recently elected as President, the society took the initiative to bring back the event.
During the program, DHO Thera Ch. Sangma shared a brief history of the society and its objectives, emphasizing the importance of encouraging farmers and horticulturists in the region.
A panel of six judges, mostly retired Meghalaya Agriculture Services officials, evaluated the exhibits. The winners in each category will receive cash prizes:
•1st Prize: ₹8,000
•2nd Prize: ₹6,000
•3rd Prize: ₹4,000
The winners will be awarded during the closing ceremony on Friday.
In his speech, DC Jagdish Chelani highlighted Meghalaya’s strong agricultural sector, stating, “Meghalaya is one of the few states where agriculture significantly contributes to the state GDP, and year by year, it continues to grow. Meghalaya’s farming community focuses on quality over quantity, producing niche products that have the potential for high demand if marketed well.”
When asked about concerns regarding pesticide use and harmful chemicals in food production, DC Chelani assured that the district administration is taking the matter very seriously. He emphasized that food inspectors are regularly checking vegetables, fish, and other products to ensure harmful substances like formalin are not used.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, nine young dancers from Laisve Dance School entertained the audience with a lively performance in front of the Chief Guest and dignitaries.
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