राज्य स्तरीय बैंकर्स समिति State Level Bankers' Committee
Convenor Bank || North Eastern Region
Convenor Bank || North Eastern Region
Agriculture is the backbone of Meghalaya's economy and plays a vital role in the socio-economic development of the State. Nearly two-thirds of the population depends directly or indirectly on agriculture and allied activities for their livelihood. The sector contributes significantly to employment generation and rural income. Meghalaya is known for its rich biodiversity, favourable agro-climatic conditions and high-value horticultural crops, offering immense potential for sustainable agricultural growth.
Meghalaya has a geographical area of about 22,429 sq. km., characterized by undulating hills, plateaus and valleys across the Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills and Garo Hills. Shifting cultivation (Jhum) and settled farming are practiced across the regions.
The soils are predominantly red loamy and lateritic, rich in organic matter but generally acidic in nature. The State's diverse soil types, coupled with favourable climatic conditions, support the cultivation of cereals, fruits, vegetables, spices, and plantation crops.
Enjoys a sub-tropical to temperate climate with moderate temperatures throughout the year. The cool winters and pleasant summers provide perfect conditions for cultivating temperate and tropical crops.
As one of the wettest places globally, the state experiences annual rainfall from 2,500 mm to over 10,000 mm (e.g., Cherrapunji and Mawsynram), which sustains agriculture but requires active soil and water management.
Major food crops include rice, maize, millets, and pulses. It is widely recognized for high-value crops like potato, ginger, black pepper, arecanut, banana, and the famous high-curcumin **Lakadong Turmeric**.
One of the fastest-growing sectors. Renowned for producing high-quality Khasi Mandarin oranges, pineapples, spices, and flowers. The State is boosting exports through value addition and organic certification.
Dairy and fisheries offer significant supplementary livelihoods. Scientific aquaculture and breed improvement programs are actively promoted by the government to enhance rural income.
While farming remains heavily rainfed, the Government is aggressively implementing check dams, minor irrigation works, water harvesting infrastructure, lift irrigation, and micro-irrigation systems to improve cropping intensity.
Access agricultural credit scales and cropping guides for Meghalaya.
