Conrad Sangma Launches CPPP Program to Boost Agricultural Processing in Meghalaya

Shillong, Nov 28: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma unveiled the Community Public Private Partnership (CPPP) program on Wednesday, aimed at establishing large-scale processing units across Meghalaya to enhance agricultural productivity and generate employment. The launch event, held in Shillong, was attended by Health and Family Welfare Minister Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, along with various stakeholders from the farming and cooperative sectors.

In his address, Chief Minister Sangma described the CPPP initiative as a transformative approach to uplift farmers and boost the state’s economy. He emphasized the importance of collective action involving cooperative societies, self-help groups, and private enterprises to improve agricultural outputs and increase the economic value of farm products. “While addressing various stakeholders, from women and youth to farmers, we realized a significant potential that needed a dedicated strategy beyond existing government schemes,” Sangma stated.

He highlighted the government’s efforts to streamline coordination among stakeholders in the farming sector, saying, “We don’t need to undertake massive changes; small, focused efforts to collectivize farmers and enhance product value can yield significant results.”

Sangma also noted the success of Integrated Village Cooperative Societies (IVCS) and producer groups, pointing out the need to focus on niche agricultural products like ginger, turmeric, and shiitake mushrooms, which offer greater economic potential for Meghalaya due to its unique agricultural landscape.

The Chief Minister reiterated the significance of Meghalaya’s community-based social structures, stressing that leveraging these networks through the CPPP initiative will boost farmers’ incomes and drive broader economic growth. “This partnership between cooperatives and private investors will scale up earnings and transform livelihoods across the state,” he added.

The program, with a proposed investment of ₹106 crore, aims to create new opportunities for farmers and cooperatives. During the event, Sangma distributed cheques worth ₹16 crore for the CPPP program and ₹2.55 crore in working capital for various cooperatives. Additionally, he flagged off a fleet of Agri Response Vehicles under the CM Elevate initiative to enhance logistical support for farmers.

Sangma concluded by urging community members and stakeholders to remain committed to ensuring the success of these processing units, emphasizing that continued support from the government and dedication from local communities will be crucial in unlocking the state’s agricultural potential.

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