Mobile-Based Agro-Advisory for Tribals of Meghalaya, India

The source of livelihood and income of the North Eastern Hill Region (NEHR) is largely rural and principally agrarian. Likewise, economy of Meghalaya is also agrarian as 81% of its population depends on agriculture. The state is not self-sufficient in food grains. It shows a deficit of 1.22 lakh tonnes per year to feed a population of 2.3 million. The climate of the state is favourable to grow all types of the crops, viz. rice, maize, pulses, oilseeds, spices and fruits. Meghalaya is well-known for its pineapple, turmeric, ginger, black pepper, areca nut, betel vine and tapioca. The state also has ample potential to earn livelihood and income from minor forest produce. Hence, agriculture and animal husbandry are complementary in the region and do not compete with each other.