Staff Reporter

Shillong, Dec 2: The Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament is set to convene its third session on December 4th and 5^th, 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.

The Awakening Indian Movement (AIM) has sought the intervention of the deputy commissioner of East Khasi Hills district to ensure a blanket ban on gambling at melas being organized by different agencies.

Speaking to media persons, chairman of AIM Bansharai Marbaniang said that many people from other part of the country come to Meghalaya to host various kinds of melas, however these melas have games that encourage gambling with money which is detrimental and have a negative impact on the welfare of the people.

Marbaniang alleged that melas throughout the country are being held in order to provide entertainment to all citizens where they can experience happiness especially for children, students, and youth but at present melas in Meghalaya are being held with gambling which have detrimental and a negative impact on the welfare of the people.

“During our visit to the mela held at the Parking Lot outside Polo Ground in Shillong, the mela hosted various gambling activities with money and young people and students in uniform participated in various gambling games” said Marbaniang.

Marbaniang said that AIM is not against organizing melas in the state, however it stands against the act of gambling that is being held at the venues hence the AIM sought the intervention into this matter.

A 15-year-old boy lost his life and others were injured after a large tree fell on the shed of a house at Umling village in Ri Bhoi District.

Reportedly, the incident took place when the deceased was studying in a room with a few other family members, who were also present inside the house.

Following the incident, the deceased person and the injured were shifted to Civil Hospital Nongpoh for post-mortem and for medical treatment. However, the dead body was sent to his native village in Assam after all formalities were completed.