SHILLONG: Meghalaya’s native Sohiong fruit (Prunus napaulensis) is set for a commercial surge thanks to new propagation techniques developed by the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam.
Traditionally cultivated in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, the dark-purple fruit—long prized for its flavor and nutrition—has been held back by slow tree growth and poor market access.
ICAR scientists have overcome major cultivation hurdles by perfecting a tongue grafting technique, reducing the fruit-bearing period from seven to nine years down to just three to four years.
High-yielding genotypes are now being tested, and natural organic farming protocols are being standardized for local conditions.
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Post-harvest, new packaging extends Sohiong’s shelf life to nine days, and ICAR has developed value-added products such as wines, candies, fruit leather, and beverages to boost rural entrepreneurship, especially among women and youth.
Research into maturity, nutrition, and grading continues to support commercialization.
ICAR is partnering with the Farmers’ Commission, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, state agencies, and local communities to distribute high-quality grafted saplings.
Officials expect Sohiong to become a sustainable, profitable crop for rural Meghalaya, driving employment, nutrition, and income growth.
(4FrontMedia news)
