Tongkhar pushes farmers towards organic farming

MAWKYRWAT, Nov 12: Mawkyrwat MLA Renikton L Tongkhar on Tuesday exhorted farmers to adopt organic farming practices, using organic manure over chemical fertilisers, in response to consumers’ growing preference for healthier, organic produce.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the District-Level Crop Competition and Horticulture Exhibition organised by the District Horticulture Office of South West Khasi Hills on its premises in Laitlawsang.
In his speech, Tongkhar lauded the farmers’ dedication and hard work, and encouraged them to focus on specific crops, fruits, or vegetables best suited to local conditions and to concentrate on single-crop cultivation to improve both the quality and nutritional value of their produce.
Noting the district’s favourable climate, he highlighted the potential for cultivating high-value crops like mushrooms and kiwifruit. He called on more farmers to take up these crops to boost production and distribution across the state and country, expressing hope that their hard work and commitment would further improve their livelihoods.
The exhibition featured 10 stalls showcasing a variety of food products, including honey, fruit jams, and juices from local food processing units, along with an array of horticultural produce such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers displayed by 150 farmers from across the district. Cash prizes and certificates were awarded to the winners of the Crop Competition, held as part of the exhibition.
Other speakers at the event included Mawkyrwat MDC Carnes Sohshang, BDO of Mawkyrwat I Lawrniang; District Horticulture Officer, South West Khasi Hills, B Sungoh, and Assistant Director, District Agriculture Office, South West Khasi Hills, E Shadap.