SHILLONG, MAR 17: Government officials, scientists and farmers gathered at MAMETI, Upper Shillong on Tuesday to outline a strategy for natural farming, reporting 79 clusters, more than 9,100 enrolled farmers and a state target of 100,000 hectares under organic cultivation by 2028.
The Regional Conference on Natural Farming, organised by the Regional Centre for Organic & Natural Farming (Imphal) and MEGNOLIA, positioned natural farming as a core part of Meghalaya’s social and economic plan.
Bansara Mylliemnagap, Director of Horticulture, said traditional practices give the state an advantage: “The shift restores soil health, reduces costs and secures better market prices for farmers.” She urged integrating livestock into clusters and bringing younger farmers into the programme.
Maqbool Lyngdoh Suiam, Chief Administrative Officer of MEGNOLIA, laid out the state agency’s role in capacity building, certification support and market linkages for high‑value crops, adding, “We have an aim by 2028 that we will be targeting to reach that magical figure of one lakh hectares covered under organic farming.”
Dr. V.Y. Deoghare of RCONF Imphal framed the national evolution from bio‑fertilisers to the National Mission on Agricultural Farming, noting central targets depend on local execution.
Joint Director Lucky Diengdoh reported Meghalaya’s clusters cover 3,950 hectares—92% of the enrolment target—with soil testing at 89% and health cards being distributed.
Technical sessions and a panel moderated by C.S. Shabong, Director of Agriculture (RTTI), discussed year‑round green cover, crop diversity and cost‑cutting techniques.
MSRLS Chief Operating Officer Shanlang Lyngdoh outlined women‑led SHG work, farmer schools and community seed banks; BRDC’s Sophie Majaw detailed training for organic standards.
Farmer Er. Ratnesh Sharma of Chhattisgarh shared low‑cost, high‑return methods for bamboo, sugarcane and paddy.
The conference honoured farmers across districts—Khalainbhon Jolang, Ringtone Nongspung (Ri Bhoi); Balari Lyngkhoi, Brijita Marbaniang (South West Khasi Hills); Sinolin Thongni, Airis Lyngkhoi (West Khasi Hills); Dalajied Lyngkhoi (Eastern West Khasi Hills); Amity Kyndait, Solda Phawa (East Jaintia); and Aroma Talang (West Jaintia)—for exemplary work.
The event bridges policy with practice as Meghalaya seeks to lead on chemical‑free cultivation.
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