Agri tools and farm machinery distributed to 12 IVCSs in West Jaintia Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 27, 2023

Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla distributed Agri-Tools and farm machinery to 12 selected Integrated Village Cooperative Societies (IVCSs) from Thaidlasken and Amlarem blocks under INRM Megh Lamp.

The programme was organized by the District Project Management Unit, West Jaintia Hills District at Tyrshi Inn, Khliehtyrshi on Tuesday.

Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Wailadmiki Shylla highlighted the significance of collaboration between line departments, IVCSs, and farmers to boost the farmers’ economy. He encouraged the farmers to view agriculture as an entrepreneurial activity and urged them to involve their children as well. To attract more farmers, he suggested that the DPMU team conduct such programs in an open space like a market.

Deputy Commissioner Batlang Samuel Sohliya, IAS, urged the IVCSs to take ownership and responsibility for the Agri-tools and farm machinery they have received. He also mentioned convening a meeting along with the DPD, M-LAMP project, and line departments to address the marketing policy in the district. He expressed his happiness in witnessing the IVCSs’ improvement and their understanding of concepts like credit and debit cards.

Deputy Project Director, M-LAMP, A Suting, emphasized the main objective of the project, which is to improve farmers’ access to market their products. He advised the farmers to cultivate products based on market demand and make informed decisions while marketing their produce.

Assistant District Agriculture Officer, M Lamare, also stressed the importance of IVCSs taking ownership and responsibility for the Agri-tools and farm machinery they have received. He mentioned previous instances where some farmers did not take responsibility for the government-provided tools.

Deputy Manager, DPMU, E  Buam, provided an overview of the program and highlighted the various phases of Agri-tools and farm machinery distributed to the IVCSs. She informed that the distribution was carried out in two phases, with eight IVCSs receiving the Agri-tools and farm machinery in Phase-I, and five IVCSs in Phase-II.

District Horticulture Officer, S Rani, informed that nine IVCSs have been identified as model plots for ginger cultivation under Thadlaskein Block. The department plans to plant five different varieties of ginger as part of the research. Rani also mentioned the department’s initiative to provide IVCSs with seedlings at a subsidized rate. Additionally, the Directorate of Food Processing is assisting and promoting farmers and entrepreneurs in marketing their agricultural products.