Tura (Meghalaya) [India], Sept. 19 : The Government of Meghalaya recently organised a special program to promote the cultivation of black pepper and to motivate people to preserve trees.

The program was organised by the East Garo Hills District Horticulture Office, whose main objective was to disseminate information on the environmental and economical benefits of black pepper cultivation.

Kharkutta MLA Cherak W Momin was the chief guest at the program.

High yield Panniyur 1 variety black pepper saplings were distributed to 83 villages under Rongjeng C&RD Block.

Black pepper is considered a very valuable commodity fetching around rupees 700 to rupees 800 in the market.

Its aggressive cultivation will not only usher in socio-economic development but also help in preserving trees.

Black pepper also has significant medicinal and culinary value. (ANI)