Jatinga’s organic pineapple growers struggle amid government apathy

OUR CORRESPONDENT

HAFLONG: Pineapple farmers in Jatinga are facing mounting challenges in securing fair prices for their organic produce, largely due to the indifferent attitude of government agencies meant to support them. Despite a bumper harvest from June to August each year, the absence of proper marketing infrastructure and cold storage facilities forces growers to sell their perishable fruit at throwaway rates.

In response to the region’s abundant production of pineapples and oranges, the Assam Hill Small Industries Development Corporation had established a fruit processing unit in 1986. Its goal was to help farmers convert their harvests into value-added products like juices and squashes, marketed across Assam. However, the unit suffered a major setback between 2000 and 2012 due to funding shortages and mismanagement. It wasn’t until 2015 that operations resumed under the brand name KANCH, bottling certified organic pineapple and orange juice—free of pesticides and a source of pride for the hill communities.

Just a few years ago, Jatinga was considered one of the richest villages in the district, thanks to its thriving pineapple and orange cultivation. But today, farmers say they feel abandoned. Speaking to the media, many expressed frustration that their efforts go unrecognized by government agencies. “We grow everything on our own. Officials come, take a few photos during their visits, and leave. No one appreciates our work,” one farmer lamented. They also alleged that they have not been issued PM-Kisan cards, further limiting their access to government benefits.

Also Read: Assam: Consignment of organic pineapple flagged off to Delhi from Cachar

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