Meghalaya’s farmers are the backbone of the state, and the government is committed to supporting them. Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Minister Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh recently emphasized that farmers are the “jewels of Meghalaya” and that the state’s progress depends heavily on their well-being.
During the inauguration of Meghalaya’s first aseptic pulp processing unit in Ri-Bhoi district, Lyngdoh shared her strong support for farmers’ welfare. She stressed that without farmers, society cannot flourish, and called on cultivators to stay self-reliant and adopt organic farming methods. She also urged them to work hard and assured that the government is ready to support them every step of the way.
Lyngdoh highlighted the dangers of overusing chemical fertilizers and emphasized the need to protect future generations by promoting natural and sustainable farming practices.
The new aseptic pulp processing unit is a big step forward for Meghalaya’s farming community. Officials say it will strengthen farmer livelihoods and boost rural economy. This initiative aims to provide better market access and higher incomes for farmers, especially by reducing post-harvest losses.
The unit has been set up through a Community Public-Private Partnership (CPPP) model. In this partnership, local communities provide land and labor, the government invests in infrastructure, and private companies bring in technology and access to markets.
Local MLA Sosthenes Sohtun from Jirang praised the project, saying, “Our farmers now have a real chance to reach bigger markets, both across the country and internationally. This isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about shaping a better future for our farming community.”
With a capacity to process 10 metric tons of fruit pulp daily, the unit will also create new job opportunities and help Meghalaya’s unique produce reach wider markets. The government’s focus on agro-processing aligns with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s mission to bring rural prosperity, by improving infrastructure, introducing new technology, and connecting farmers directly to profitable markets.
This initiative marks a new chapter in Meghalaya’s journey toward sustainable farming and rural development, ensuring farmers are at the heart of the state’s growth story.
