By Our Reporter
Shillong, Feb 14: Hill Farmers’ Shiitake Mushroom Co-op Soc. Ltd. of Meghalaya and YATS Corporation of Japan on Friday officially signed a collaborative agreement aimed at developing market linkage and a robust supply chain for Shiitake mushroom cultivation in the state.
The collaborative agreement was signed at Shillong Club by YATS Corporation president, Yasuhide Ito and Hill Farmers’ Shiitake Mushroom Co-op. Soc. Ltd General Secretary Alfondbirth Kharsyntiew, signifying a mutual commitment to leveraging the strengths of both organisations in enhancing the Shiitake mushroom industry.
The collaboration aims to provide farmers with improved access to international markets, advanced agricultural practices, and cutting-edge technologies to boost productivity and quality.
Additionally, the Hill Farmers’ Shiitake Mushroom Co-op Soc. Ltd., the Government of Meghalaya, and YATS Corporation of Japan have entered into a tripartite agreement, signed in 2019, to foster the development of a comprehensive Shiitake mushroom ecosystem within the state.
The tripartite agreement underscores the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders to ensure the sustainable growth and success of the Shiitake mushroom industry in Meghalaya.
Key highlights of the 2019 tripartite agreement
Sustainable Income Generation for Farmers: The initiative aims to create sustainable income opportunities for the farmers of Meghalaya, ensuring long-term economic benefits and improved livelihoods.
Market-Linkage Development: The partnership aims to create a seamless market-linkage system, connecting local farmers to global markets, thereby increasing their income and economic stability.
Supply Chain Enhancement: The collaborative efforts will focus on establishing an efficient and effective supply chain, ensuring the timely and quality delivery of Shiitake mushrooms from Meghalaya to Japan and other international markets.
Technological Advancements: The agreements will facilitate the transfer of advanced agricultural technologies and best practices from Japan to Meghalaya, empowering local farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to optimize their cultivation processes.
Government Support: The Government of Meghalaya will play a pivotal role in providing the necessary infrastructure, policy support, and regulatory framework to ensure the success of the initiatives.
Speaking on the occasion, Hill Farmers’ Shiitake Mushroom Co-op Soc. Ltd general secretary expressed his optimism about the partnership: “This collaboration with YATS Corporation of Japan represents a significant step towards transforming the Shiitake mushroom industry in Meghalaya. “We are confident that this partnership will bring about positive changes for our farmers and the entire region,” he said.