Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday announced a plan to promote the fruit wine industry in the state.
He said that a robust policy has been put in place to promote a thriving ecosystem that links tourism, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and job creation.
Speaking at the launch of the Northeast Wine Incubation Centre in Shillong, the Chief Minister said that he was inspired to take up this initiative after tasting a homemade pineapple wine with a simple, handcrafted label on a beer bottle.
He said that the wine inside was exceptional, and this experience convinced him of the immense potential of the fruit wine industry in Meghalaya.
The Chief Minister said that the government is committed to establishing a proper system, policy, and support structure for local fruit winemakers.
He said that this initiative is not only aimed at boosting the wine industry but also at benefiting farmers, tourists, and entrepreneurs in the state.
Sangma envisioned to make Meghalaya the fruit-wine capital of the country. He said that he is confident of achieving this goal with the collaboration of all stakeholders involved.
The wine incubation centre, which is the first of its kind in the entire Northeast, will provide a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to test and utilize machinery, encouraging innovation and economic growth through wine making.
The Chief Minister also assured the public that the licensing fees would remain nominal and that the government is in the process of streamlining the registration process to facilitate ease of access for local winemakers.