Northeast's First Organic Spice Hub Opens in Meghalaya's Ri-Bhoi District

The Northeast’s largest organic spice processing unit has opened in Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the ₹32-crore facility. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang were present at the event. The facility is the first organically certified spice processing unit in Northeast India. It meets standards set by the National Programme for Organic Production and the European Union Organic Standards. With a capacity of over 10,000 metric tonnes annually, it will process high-value organic spices like Lakadong turmeric and local ginger varieties.

Meghalaya’s ginger is known for its low fibre content and superior quality. Lakadong turmeric contains higher curcumin levels than most commercial types. These spices hold strong market potential, both domestically and abroad.

Eleven processing units are already active across Meghalaya. These support nearly 55,000 farmers and their families. The Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company, with around 500 members, has built an ecosystem for organic farming and market access. The new project will directly benefit around 5,500 organic farmers in Meghalaya and neighbouring regions. The facility aims to boost exports of finished spice products under trusted brands. It will help farmers meet globally competitive quality standards. This initiative strengthens the region’s position in the organic spice market.