SHILLONG: The first ever Farmers’ Mart in Meghalaya was set up in the premises of the office of the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner, here on Wednesday
The Farmers’ Mart, a sale outlet of rural local products, was initiated by Deputy Commissioner, Abhishek Bhagotia, under the aegis of IBDLP programme.
The IBDLP programme focuses on enhancement of rural economy through development and promotion of rural entrepreneurs and micro enterprises.
In East Khasi Hills District, approximately 9000 farmers are registered with the Enterprise Facilitation Centres at the Block office for various capacity building and livelihood promotion measures.
Bhagotia, who is also the Chairman of the Basin Development Unit of the district, has taken up the initiative of Farmers’ Mart as a first step towards providing larger exposure and an organised marketing platform for indigenous products particularly honey, spices and handicraft besides organic vegetables. Unadulterated food products, reasonable prices and better margins to farmers or producers will be the unique selling point (USU) of the Mart.
Stressing on the need to promote local brands and products, the Deputy Commissioner said, “the idea behind the Farmers Mart is to re-connect our roots with the farming community and provide a platform for a more organized supply chain and marketing strategy.”
The Mart was inaugurated on Wednesday by P Sampath Kumar, Commissioner and Secretary C&RD Department in the presence of farmers and staff of the office.
Speaking on the occasion Kumar lauded the district administration for the initiative as a measure to promote entrepreneurship and micro enterprises.
“Local products and organic foods should be highly encouraged among consumers, farmers and entrepreneurs,” he said.