SHILLONG, Aug 25: The Meghalaya government has assured broomstick farmers in Mawkynrew area of East Khasi Hills district of its commitment to addressing the drastic drop in broomstick prices. The assurance was given by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma during a meeting with a delegation of farmers led by local NPP MLA Banteidor Lyngdoh on August 22.
The farmers in Mawkynrew have been severely impacted by the decline in broomstick prices, which have plummeted from Rs 130 to Rs 30 per kilogram. The situation has been worsened by reports of traders at Mawiong making unwarranted deductions in the weight of broomsticks, further straining the farmers’ already fragile economic situation. Many farmers, who depend solely on broomstick cultivation for their livelihoods, are now struggling to afford basic necessities such as school fees for their children.
During the meeting, the CM assured the delegation that he would discuss the matter with Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh to explore possible solutions for stabilising and increasing the market price of broomsticks.
In response to the crisis, local MLA Banteidor Lyngdoh had earlier convened a meeting at Thangsning village, bringing together hundreds of farmers and traditional heads from various villages to address the pressing issue. He pointed out that the state government’s reclassification of broomstick as an agro-forestry product, instead of a forest produce, should have benefited the farmers. However, the current price slump has posed new challenges that need urgent attention.
Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh had previously informed that the government created a corpus fund of Rs 5 crore to provide financial relief to farmers affected by the falling broomstick prices. The fund, established three months ago, is designed to offer monetary assistance to farmers who choose to stock their produce in warehouses rather than selling at the current low market rates. This interim support aims to help farmers manage their financial needs while awaiting better market conditions. Several farmers have already benefitted from this fund, according to the minister.
Banteidor also pledged to lead a delegation to meet Chief Minister Sangma and Agriculture Minister Lyngdoh to seek further solutions to the farmers’ grievances.
Additionally, he proposed inviting traders to explain the factors behind the decline in broomstick prices, aiming to foster transparency and develop strategies to support the farmers during this challenging period.
