Shillong: The nascent floriculture industry in Meghalaya has got a boost with the state government promising to focus on the cut flower market under its floriculture mission.

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, while presenting the state budget 2023-24, Sangma said the floriculture mission will focus on cut flowers, such as gerberas, carnations, anthuriums, roses and orchids.

The government also allocated Rs 11.3 crore for the development of fruit market with a focus on improving the the value chains of pineapple and orange that will benefit about 50,000 farmers.

Sangma further allicatted Ra 5.6 crore for vegetables development to help about 10,000 growers of potato, carrot, cabbage and other vegetables.

The state has a Horticulture Mission that has the objectives of adopting a holistic approach for sector development, improving priductivity and developing farmers' organisations.

Air connectivity
The government allocated Rs 15.5 crore for improving air connectivity. The state is working with the Airport Authority of India and other agencies to expand the existing runway at Umroi Airport to allow landing of larger aircraft.
"This will enable direct connectivity to the cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai, with huge positive impact on tourism, " said Sangma.

ALSO READ: Grammarly announces India-origin Rahul Roy as its next CEO