The ninth farmers' market in Shillong: demand for organics is growing

Organic farmer Simendaris Ryntiang from Mairang brought three baskets of sohiong (wild cherry) to the fair, which were sold out by midday. This is her second participation in this monthly event. According to Ryntiang, the market helps farmers directly sell organics to the residents of Shillong, bypassing traditional distribution channels, and she plans to bring more goods in the future.

Saturday's September event offered visitors seasonal vegetables and fruits, including sohiong and tomatoes, as well as various value-added products from different corners of Meghalaya. In total, during the operation of the monthly market, over 300 farmers of the state were able to directly interact with buyers.

Among the participants for the first time were Philisha Minsong from Mawiong and Rinda Sungsoh from Thadlaskein. Both noted the importance of such a platform for product sales and expressed hope for further participation in similar initiatives, thanking the government for creating a convenient communication channel with city residents.

In addition to physical trade, the project utilizes digital delivery thanks to a partnership between the Government of Meghalaya and the local quick-commerce platform SOMOI. This provides farmers with an additional sales channel, and local youth with courier jobs.

Buyers appreciate the fair for fresh, high-quality, and affordable vegetables and fruits, as well as for the opportunity to learn more about farming methods. The market is organized by the 1917 iTEAMS structure of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare with the support of the Meghalaya Farmers' Empowerment Commission as part of a strategy to improve farmers' market access and promote organic agriculture.