Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma announced the government has formulated a plan to promote the fruit wine industry in the state. He emphasized the implementation of a comprehensive policy aimed at fostering an ecosystem that integrates tourism, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and job creation by supporting local fruit winemakers.
Speaking at the inauguration of the North East Wine Incubation Centre in Mawdiangdiang, Shillong, Conrad Sangma shared an anecdote about encountering homemade pineapple wine with simple, handcrafted packaging. Despite the unimpressive label, the wine itself was exceptional. This experience, along with discussions and observations, led him to recognize the immense potential of the fruit wine industry in Meghalaya.
The chief minister highlighted that this initiative would not only boost the wine industry but also benefit farmers, tourists, and entrepreneurs in the state. He expressed his motivation to make Meghalaya the fruit wine capital of the country, expressing confidence in achieving this goal through collaboration with all stakeholders.
He envisioned that the wine incubation centre would serve as a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to test and utilize machinery, fostering innovation and economic growth through wine production.
Addressing concerns about licensing and accessibility for winemakers, the Sangma assured the public that the licensing fees would remain nominal. He also mentioned that the government is in the process of streamlining the registration process to facilitate easier access for local winemakers.
The inauguration of the wine incubation centre, the first of its kind in the entire Northeast region, was attended by agriculture minister Ampareen Lyngdoh and excise minister Kyrmen Shylla.
Background:
In September 2020, the government of Meghalaya amended the Meghalaya Excise Rules to legalize the production and sale of Homemade Wines under license. This move aimed to provide a legal avenue for local winemakers to engage in winemaking as a commercial venture, promote wine tourism, and boost the horticulture sector.
The government has also initiated Wine Appreciation & Wine Making Certification Courses to train local winemakers in modern techniques and ensure the quality of wine produced in Meghalaya meets national and international standards. These courses have been organized by the Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission (MFEC).
MFEC, actively involved in formulating the current policy, is now responsible for promoting and facilitating the consumption of local fruit wines and meads in the country, with the goal of making Meghalaya a leader in fruit wine and mead production and refinement in the northeast.
