Pineapple farmer’s fruitful journey among the thorny plants in West Karbi Anglong

Our Correspondent

Diphu, July 15 (EMN): With pineapple farming as the main source of livelihood, the villagers of Tharvelangso in West Karbi Anglong, have been cultivating pineapple for years to support their families and for educating their children.

Meet Jostan Tokbi, a local pineapple cultivator from Tharvelangso village who has set an example of self-reliance and integrity.

This reporter travelled 190 km to meet Tokbi, who is one of the most successful pineapple cultivators in the village.

From Tharvelangso, Umpanai in Amri MAC constituency, Jostan Tokbi, who has been cultivating pineapple for the last ten years own 6 bighas of pineapple farm and has plans to extend more in future.

Located along Shillong road, his well maintained farm attracts every passerby.

Speaking exclusively to Eastern Mirror Jostan Tokbi said, ‘we have completed ten years of pineapple cultivation and through this cultivation I could support my family and children for studies as well.’

Father of three children, Tokbi credits his co-operative family who are working together towards the success of their farm.

With his farm as the main source of income, the farmer proud father says two are still studying while one is married.

He said, ‘we have planted our pineapple farm along the roadside so that everyone gets inspiration from it. Of course, many have started planting, while may are yet to make use of the vacant land while is fertile for pineapple cultivation.’

He said the productions are harvested twice annually; the first production in July and August, and the second product from November to February.

Tokbi, who is also a generous farmer, has assisted over 20,000 new plants to new farmers last year as an encouragement as he says there is an enormous payback on pineapple cultivation.

To have a fruitful harvest, the farmer says one has to continuously clean the farm and make sure field animals like squirrels and rats are kept away.

His production goes to neighbouring cities like Guwahati, Jagiroad and to headquarter Diphu.

When asked if there has been any assistance from the Agriculture Department, Tokbi said no assistance have been provided from the department.

Pineapple cultivations are also found in the Duarbagori MAC constituency in Deithor and Kekang Adong.