Tura, June 7: The Integrated Farmer’s Market at Ampati Market, South West Garo Hills, which was inaugurated six years ago, has officially opened for operations.

The official opening of the market was held on Friday, by the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) and the District Horticulture Officer, South West Garo Hills, in collaboration with the Deputy Commissioner of South West Garo Hills.

The event witnessed the presence of GHADC CEM Albinush Marak, Executive Member Stevie Marak, MDC of Boldamgre, Pramod Koch, MDC of Dalu, Sanjay Koch, MDC of Betasing, Balsrang Sangma, Assistant Director (Marketing) from the District Horticulture Office of Ampati, and other officers and staff of GHADC. Local farmers, vendors, and members of the Ampati Bazar Committee were also present for the event.

Addressing the gathering, CEM Albinush Marak emphasized the importance of the new market infrastructure in enhancing local livelihoods by providing a secure and comfortable environment for selling agricultural produce. He also urged local farmers to apply for rental spaces in the market, maintain the facility, and focus on improving their agricultural practices.

Pramod Koch, MDC of Dalu, highlighted the need for sustainable agricultural practices, stressing the importance of organic farming and water conservation. He encouraged farmers to balance profit with ecological responsibility and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers, which pose long-term environmental risks.

District Horticulture Assistant Director (Marketing), Balsrang Sangma, provided details about the market’s infrastructure and urged farmers to adopt organic farming methods and treat the new facility as their own.

Progressive farmer Salbinson Sangma expressed gratitude for the new market, highlighting the opportunities it provides for processing and selling agricultural produce, which can create employment and reduce wastage.

The market’s journey began with a Memorandum of Understanding signed on May 30, 2013, and the handing over to the GHADC on March 31, 2018. Despite initial setbacks and challenges, a management committee was established, guidelines were prepared, and the necessary repairs were completed. The market, which comprises Block A with 105 rooms and Block B with 51 rooms, has faced several challenges since its inauguration. Issues such as pending construction works, opposition to room rent rates, and outstanding utility bills delayed its opening. However, these issues have been resolved, and the market is now ready to serve the community.

Room rents have been fixed based on square footage: Rs 40/Sq ft. for the ground floor, Rs 30/Sq ft. for the first floor, and Rs 20/Sq ft. for the second floor. A joint meeting on May 20, 2024, had finalized the opening date for June 7, 2024.

The joint efforts of the GHADC, local officials, and community members culminated in the Integrated Farmers’ Market’s opening, marking a significant milestone for the region’s agricultural sector.

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