Shillong, Sept 24: A new Indigenous Café has been launched at Umsohphlang, Mawstep, under Khatarshnong Laitkroh Block in East Khasi Hills, adding another milestone to Meghalaya’s growing map of indigenous food initiatives. The café, inaugurated by Sohra MLA Gavin Mylliem, is an initiative of the Mawstep Primary Agroecology Cooperative Society, with support from IPAF-Tebtebba and LIC-HFL CSR.
Designed to promote indigenous food systems and strengthen community-driven livelihoods, the launch brought together community members, schoolchildren, and partner organisations in a celebration that highlighted the role of traditional food knowledge in cultural preservation and local development.
The Mawstep Indigenous Café is more than a dining space — it is a collective statement of resilience, unity, and cultural pride, reviving traditional food systems while contributing to sustainable livelihoods and community well-being.
The initiative is part of a broader LIC-HFL project, under which four communities — Nongwah, Mawpynthymmai, Umsawwar, and Ladmawphlang — are preparing to set up their own Indigenous Cafés. Youth trained as Nature Guides under the same project also participated, underscoring the focus on empowering the next generation.
In his remarks, headman and cooperative member Betsing Rynjah said the café would not only showcase chemical-free, community-sourced products but also attract visitors along the David Scott Trail. “We hope this café will open many opportunities for our community while ensuring our environment is protected,” he said.
NESFAS Executive Director Pius Ranee noted that Mawstep was chosen after an assessment identified its potential as both a tourist stopover and a hub for neighbouring villages. “Through this initiative, we aim to provide meaningful opportunities, especially for youth, so they can remain rooted in their villages while securing a sustainable livelihood,” he said.
Chief Guest Gavin Mylliem commended the efforts of NESFAS and the cooperative, stressing that tourists increasingly prefer indigenous cuisines over fast food. “Traditional food holds great value in today’s time. By promoting it, we strengthen our identity while protecting our environment,” he said.
The event featured cultural performances, songs by Mawstep Presbyterian LP School children, and a couplet dedicated to preserving traditional food systems. Delivering the vote of thanks, cooperative member Samborlang Nongrum reminded the gathering: “If you want to walk fast, walk alone. But if you want to walk far, walk together.”
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