3rd Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament to be held on December

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Dec 2: The Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament is set to convene its third session on December 4th and 5th, 2023, coinciding with the celebration of Meghalaya Farmers’ Day at the prestigious State Convention Centre in Shillong.

Organized by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare in collaboration with Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBDA) and Hills Farmers’ Union (HFU), this annual event has evolved into a pivotal celebration, acknowledging the relentless efforts and invaluable contributions of local farmers to the agricultural landscape.

Distinguished guests at the upcoming 3rd Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament include Chief

Minister Conrad K Sangma, who will grace the event as Chief Guest, alongside A. L. Hek, Minister of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, and Dr Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Meghalaya.

“As we gather for the Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament and Farmers’ Day, it’s a tribute to the unyielding spirit of our farmers. Their dedication transforms fields into stories of resilience and innovation. In this symposium, we envision a future where sustainable practices and eco-friendly approaches pave the way for agricultural excellence. Let us cultivate not just crops but a legacy of ingenuity and prosperity. Together, we celebrate the farmers who embody the essence of Meghalaya’s agricultural landscape with unwavering commitment and a vision for a bountiful tomorrow,” said Dr Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya.

The inaugural Farmers’ Parliament was held on December 4, 2018, in Shillong, marking a collaboration between the Agriculture Department, Government of Meghalaya, Meghalaya Basin Development Agency (MBDA), Meghalaya Institute of Entrepreneurship (MIE), and the Hills Farmers’ Union (HFU).

Following the success of its maiden edition, the second Farmers’ Parliament took place on December 10, 2019, in Tura, designating the year 2020 as the “Year of the Farmers”, with December 4th earmarked for the annual celebration of Meghalaya Farmers’ Day.

The Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament and Farmers’ Day event serves as a critical platform for unity, appreciating those who tirelessly toil to ensure food security and prosperity for the region. The program underscores the significance of community-driven initiatives and grassroots engagement. Renowned agricultural experts and policymakers will participate in the dialogue, offering valuable insights to address the evolving needs of the farming community.

The event will feature presentations, demonstrations, and networking sessions, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge to enhance their agricultural endeavours.

The Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture while preserving traditional farming methods and embracing innovative approaches to address the ever-changing landscape of the agricultural sector.

Meghalaya State BJP waiting for central nod to new executive members

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Nov 9: BJP leader and cabinet minister AL Hek has informed that the list of the new state executive members is awaiting the approval of the central leadership.

“This morning I spoke to the newly elected president Rikman G Momin, who is on the way to Delhi with a list for the approval of the central leaders. After getting the approval, they will publish the names of the new state executive members of the party,” Hek told reporters.

On the party’s preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Hek said that his name is among the three ticket aspirants for the Shillong parliamentary seat.

“However, I don’t know who the other two names are. So we will see who from the three names will be the best choice for contesting from Shillong parliamentary seat,” he said while adding “Among the three, whoever will be chosen, we will have to work hard and ensure win in this upcoming Lok Sabha election.”

On TMC leader and former chief minister Mukul Sangma joining the BJP, Hek however said the door of the BJP is not only open to TMC but also to all political parties.

“Mukul Sangma can join at any time he wants. I welcome him anytime but we have not discussed so how will I know if he is joining or not. But for us the door is open to anybody who wants to come to the BJP,” he said.

Hek also said that he has no idea on whether Mukul Sangma is in touch or not with the BJP central leadership.