Jowai, September 19, 2025: The Department of Food Safety, Meghalaya, held a special meeting in Jowai on Friday to deliberate on crucial matters related to market hygiene and public health.

The meeting was welcomed by Ms. E. Pyngrope, Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety & Designated Officer, Jaintia Hills Division, and was chaired by Ms. D.B.S. Mukhim, Deputy Commissioner of Food Safety (Enforcement), Shillong. Ms. D.V. Lyngdoh, Additional Deputy Commissioner, West Jaintia Hills District, was also present.

Representatives of several Market Management Committees attended, including:

L.C. Ryngkhlem, Deputy Secretary, E.C., JHADC

C.S. Manar, Special Officer In-charge Market, JHADC

L. Khonglah, Secretary, Jowai Presbyterian Church Market Management Committee

B. Shylla, Secretary, CNI

Arwotki Sun, General Secretary, Seiñraij

E. Phawa, General Secretary, Ladthadlaboh, Jowai
along with Food Safety Officers.

During the discussions, participants emphasized the need to improve hygiene and sanitation in markets and resolved to form the Food Safety Coordination Committee, Jowai. This new body will include members of market management committees, traditional leaders (Rangbah Shnong), and Food Safety officials to ensure effective regulation and enforcement.

In a significant announcement, the Department of Food Safety revealed plans to introduce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all markets in the region to ensure compliance with food safety and public health standards. Officials noted that most market committees currently lack SOPs, and the move will help streamline operations and strengthen oversight.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. P.W. Lyngdoh, Headman of Chutwakhu and Chairman of the Jowai Municipal Board, who was joined by Mr. Ebormi Challam, representative of Ïaw Challam.