Shillong, May 11, 2026: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated a Biochar Plant at the Eastern Ri Bhoi Organic FPC Processing Plant in Umsli, Bhoirymbong.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the government’s priority is to improve farmers’ income through value addition, soil health improvement, quality seeds, and financial support. He noted that Meghalaya’s acidic soil, heavy rainfall, and abundant bamboo resources make biochar production highly feasible.
The project features two pyrolysis units that help in carbon sequestration by converting bamboo and biomass into stable, carbon-rich biochar. The by-products, including bio-oil and synthesis gas, can also be used for environmentally beneficial purposes.
Dr. S Ashutosh said the Meghalaya Community Biochar Initiative aims to tackle soil degradation, declining productivity, plant diseases, and climate change while creating livelihood opportunities through bamboo-based community enterprises. Another biochar unit is expected to begin operations in West Garo Hills by June 2026.
The Rs 1.5 crore project, implemented by Compliance Kart in partnership with Ri Bhoi FPC, can process one tonne of bamboo daily and is projected to remove 6,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide over 20 years while generating Rs 12 crore in revenue. Around 250–300 community members across Khasi and Garo Hills are expected to benefit directly.
