By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 28: A range of value-added products produced by women farmers from West Khasi Hills and Eastern West Khasi Hills districts were launched by the North East Network (NEN) on Tuesday with the aim of assisting them in building market linkages and promoting rural entrepreneurship.
The launch, held at Savio Hall, Dhanketi, was organised under the theme “Visibilise Women’s Work, Strengthen Communities.” The event also marked the celebrations of the International Day of Rural Women (October 15) and the Home-Based Workers Day (October 20).
The occasion featured the unveiling of woollen and tailoring products crafted by survivor groups and home-based workers from East Khasi Hills, showcasing their creativity and resilience.
Speaking to reporters, NEN State Coordinator Iaimanda A Ryngksai said the initiative aims to recognise the crucial role that women farmers and home-based workers play in ensuring food security, diversifying livelihoods, building resilient communities, and restoring natural resources. “Despite their contributions and the fact that Meghalaya is a matrilineal society, women continue to face systemic barriers, including limited access to decision-making over land, financial services, entitlements, and market opportunities,” Ryngksai said.
“Our goal is to acknowledge their knowledge and skills, which are vital for promoting seed conservation, natural resource management, and biodiversity preservation.”
Ryngksai added that NEN has been working for over three decades with grassroots women leaders, community stakeholders, and government departments to strengthen women’s leadership and promote inclusive and equitable sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Member Secretary of the Meghalaya Biodiversity Board, R. Nainamalai, highlighted the government’s readiness to provide technical know-how, financial assistance, and market linkages to rural producers.
“Across Meghalaya, more than 6,800 Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) have been formed, with many women serving as members,” Nainamalai said.
He said: “Every village has unique local products that often remain within the community. With value addition, branding, and expert support, these products can reach wider markets, helping improve livelihoods and living standards.”
Nainamalai further encouraged rural women to continue developing and promoting their unique products, saying their creativity and hard work can bring meaningful change to their communities. Meghalaya State Commission for Women (MSCW) Chairperson Iamonlang Syiem was also present at the event.
