ABOUT MSOCB

Meghalaya is basically an agrarian state and about 80% of the population is either directly or indirectly dependent on agriculture for livelihood. Since time immemorial, farming in Meghalaya is Organic by tradition and has been practiced by our farmers and the farming community for ages. Our forefathers had practised a form of shifting cultivation or slash and burn agriculture which is commonly called Jhum cultivation or Rep Shyrti (in Khasi) and A.ba oa (in Garo).

Meghalaya is currently one of the lowest users of chemicals in agriculture, using only about 17 to 20 kg of chemicals per hectare of land, and that is mostly limited to solanaceous crops. Despite this, the state began to take several steps to move towards sustainable organic farming. In 2015, the state discontinued subsidy on chemical fertilizers, plant protection chemicals and other chemicals used in agriculture.

With high cost of certification and low number of certifying agencies make certification of organic produce challenging for small and marginal farmers. Hence, Meghalaya State Organic Certification Body (MSOCB) was created and initially MSOCB shall provide organic certification services in the state of Meghalaya. Later, it will expand its inspection and certification activities to the entire Northeast Region of India.

Why Organic Farming?

•Maintain and improve fertility, soil structure and biodiversity and reduce erosion

• Organic farming is free from chemicals and fertilizers, so it does not harm the environment and reduce the risks of human and animal exposure to toxic materials.

• With the usage of cheaper and local inputs, a farmer can make a good return on investment