The Rise and Fall of Broom Grass: Why Meghalaya’s Farmers Are Returning to Coffee 2025

​In the verdant hills of Meghalaya, agriculture has long been the backbone of its economy, with traditional practices like jhum (shifting cultivation) sustaining communities for generations. However, the agricultural landscape has experienced significant shifts, particularly with the rise and fall of broom grass cultivation, impacting traditional crops such as coffee.​

The Rise of Broom Grass Cultivation

Broom grass (Thysanolaena maxima), locally known as 'synsar', emerged as a lucrative cash crop in Meghalaya. Its adaptability to the state's hilly terrain and minimal maintenance requirements made it an attractive option for farmers seeking better income opportunities. The demand for broom grass soared, leading many to adopt its cultivation over traditional crops. This shift was not merely an economic decision but also a response to the challenges posed by traditional farming methods and the allure of a more stable income source. ​openknowledge.fao.org

Impact on Coffee Cultivation

Coffee, particularly the Arabica variety, has deep roots in Meghalaya's agricultural history, with cultivation dating back to the 19th century. The state's climatic conditions are favorable for coffee, and indigenous varieties like Coffea khasiana and Coffea bengalensis are native to the region. However, the labor-intensive nature of coffee cultivation and fluctuating market prices made it less appealing compared to the booming broom grass market. Consequently, many coffee plantations were either neglected or converted to broom grass fields, leading to a decline in coffee production. ​

The Decline of Broom Grass Prices

The initial profitability of broom grass led to its widespread cultivation. However, this rapid expansion resulted in market saturation, causing prices to plummet. Farmers who once thrived on broom grass sales found themselves grappling with diminishing returns. The volatility of the broom grass market underscored the risks of over-reliance on a single cash crop, prompting farmers to reconsider their agricultural choices. ​

Revisiting Coffee Cultivation

In light of the declining profitability of broom grass, there has been a renewed interest in coffee cultivation among Meghalaya's farmers. Organizations like the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA) have been instrumental in reviving coffee farming in the region. Farmers like Wefstar D. Shira have adopted integrated organic farming practices, cultivating both Robusta and Arabica coffee varieties. Shira's Robusta plants yield up to 18 kg per plant, while Arabica yields about 8 kg per plant, indicating the potential profitability of coffee cultivation. ​mbda.gov.in

Challenges and the Way Forward

Despite the resurgence of coffee cultivation, challenges persist. Farmers face issues such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to quality planting materials, and fluctuating market prices. Moreover, the dominance of middlemen in the supply chain often results in farmers receiving lower returns for their produce. To address these challenges, initiatives like the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority are working towards providing technical guidance, improving market access, and promoting sustainable farming practices. ​

Conclusion

The agricultural journey of Meghalaya's farmers reflects resilience and adaptability. The shift from traditional crops to broom grass and back to coffee underscores the dynamic nature of agriculture in the region. With concerted efforts from government bodies, local enterprises, and the farmers themselves, there is hope for a sustainable and prosperous future for coffee cultivation in Meghalaya.​

Note: The information presented is based on available sources and aims to provide an overview of the agricultural trends in Meghalaya.