Shillong, September 15: Five days after staging a protest over issues affecting the farming community, leaders of the Hill Farmers’ Union (HFU) met Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma at the State Guest House, Taraghar, on Monday and pressed for stronger policies and support mechanisms for farmers and livestock rearers.
The delegation, led by HFU president Commander Shangpliang and general secretary Alfonse Birth Kharsyntiew, included representatives of farmers and livestock rearers from different parts of Meghalaya.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Shangpliang said the delegation discussed the difficulties faced by farmers and livestock rearers and reiterated its demand for a comprehensive policy addressing their practical and financial concerns.
The HFU proposed a committee comprising government officials, technical experts and representatives of recognised farmers’ organisations to ensure greater farmer participation in policymaking. Shangpliang said farmers should not be treated merely as beneficiaries but should have a meaningful role in framing and implementing policies affecting their livelihoods.
A major concern raised was compensation for livestock losses caused by disease outbreaks, particularly African Swine Fever. The Union said several piggery farmers had suffered significant losses after their animals died or were culled, while some had faced difficulties in accessing compensation and government assistance.
The HFU called for a transparent and time-bound compensation mechanism, along with clear guidelines on documentation and procedures, including veterinary certification, health examination reports and post-mortem findings where required.
The Union also urged the government to strengthen veterinary services, disease surveillance and animal healthcare facilities across the State. It sought regular livestock health check-ups, early detection of infectious diseases and quicker intervention during outbreaks.
The HFU further called for better monitoring of the movement of livestock and meat into Meghalaya, particularly pigs, and proposed a systematic registration and verification system to help trace animal movement and reduce the risk of disease transmission.
The delegation also sought greater coordination among the Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Cooperation and other departments dealing with rural livelihoods. It urged the government to make schemes, financial assistance, insurance and veterinary services more accessible at the village level.
According to the HFU, the Chief Minister gave the delegation an opportunity to present its grievances and assured that the issues would be examined in consultation with the departments concerned.
While welcoming the assurance, the Union said it would continue to follow up with the government until concrete action is taken. Shangpliang said the HFU would continue to pursue farmers’ grievances through democratic means and decide its future course based on the government’s response.
