A one day Training Program on “Land Preparation and layout for planting of Khasi Mandarin & Pineapple” was organized by the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, in collaboration with Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA), Government of Meghalaya, Shillong, at ICAR Research Complex for NEH, Umiam on 01st June 2026. The programme was conducted as part of the recently signed MoU between the ICAR Research Complex for NEH, Umiam and MBMA for the establishment of Khasi Mandarin and Pineapple cultivation under the ADB-supported Integrated Eco-tourism and Sustainable Agri-based Livelihood Development (IESALD) Project.
        The programme was inaugurated by Dr G. Kadirvel, Director of ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, who stressed the importance of Khasi mandarin and pineapple in the region. He also emphasised a collaborative approach between the ICAR and state functionaries for the success of the project. Mr. Rodonald Majaw, Regional Project Manager, Dr. T. Ramesh, and scientists also attended the programme. The technical sessions on pre-planting operations, including land preparation, land clearing, layout, pit digging, pit refilling, and planting of khasi mandarin and pineapple, were conducted at the Horticulture Farm by Dr Heiplanmi Rymbai.
        About 57 participants, mainly the Project Staff, Farm Manager, Consultants, and Master Trainers of MBMA from Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills and Garo Hills, as well as Farmers, attended the program. The training concluded with the distribution of certificates to all participants. The coordinators of the programme were Dr T. Ramesh, Dr H. Rymbai, Dr N. Biswakarma, and Dr H. Talang.