Synopsis
Meghalaya is championing organic farming, with 95% of rural women now in Self Help Groups. The state is investing in infrastructure and promoting tourism. A Rs 250 crore plan aims to build a competitive organic ecosystem. Meghalaya is setting a global example for community-driven agriculture and empowering women farmers.
ET Bureau Guwahati: Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma said that in 2018, Meghalaya had 3 to 4% of women in Self Help Groups; today, 95% of women in rural areas are part of this network.
The 1st Northeast India Organic Week and the 4th World IFOAM Organic Youth Summit concluded on Monday, marking a significant moment for the region and the global organic sector.
The three-day convergence, which brought together agricultural pioneers, policy experts, and a global assembly of young changemakers across 13 countries.
Sangma articulated a clear and impassioned vision for the state, declaring that his government’s entire policy framework is centred on one singular agenda, to help and to uplift the farmers of our state.
He defined organic farming as an intrinsic part of Meghalaya’s identity, stating, “It is about our forefathers, it is about our traditions, and about how our people have been farming for centuries.”
He announced major infrastructure upgrades, including the extension of the Shillong airport runway to handle large aircraft by 2027. He placed special emphasis on the “UN International Year of the Woman Farmer” next year, revealing a massive transformation in the state’s institutional structure. He reiterated, “In 2018, we had 3 to 4% of women in Self Help Groups; today, 95% of women in rural areas are part of this network.” He concluded by calling for a powerful convergence of agric
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