Shillong, October 9, 2025 – Farmers in Meghalaya have voiced concern over continued neglect and discrimination from both society and the government. These grievances were outlined in a memorandum submitted to the Minister of Agriculture, Timothy D. Shira, at his office in the Secretariat.
The memorandum was presented under the leadership of Commander Shangpliang, President of the Hill Farmers’ Union (HFU), and Allfondbirth Kharsyntiew, the Union’s General Secretary.
Speaking to the media, President Shangpliang said that farmers are facing “unfair weight deductions” and arbitrary levies during the sale and transport of their produce. “These deductions are made as if they were legally mandated, resulting in major financial losses for farmers,” he said.
With regard to the proposed amendments to the KHADC Market Rules, 2024, the HFU pointed out a drastic fall in the prices of agricultural produce such as betel nuts, bay leaves, broomsticks, and vegetables. The Union demanded that the government introduce a price stabilization mechanism and improve market access for farmers.
The HFU also raised concerns about the lack of irrigation infrastructure, noting that most farmers depend solely on rainfall, leaving them vulnerable to erratic weather patterns. The organization called for the expansion of central schemes and the establishment of development projects to enhance crop productivity.
On the issue of taxation, farmers alleged that they are being overburdened by multiple levies at various checkpoints, severely reducing their earnings. The HFU demanded a thorough review and correction of these unfair taxes.
The Union also drew attention to the death of farmers in Lapangap (West Jaintia Hills) following incidents along the Assam–Meghalaya border, urging the government to ensure the safety and security of farmers in border areas.
The HFU further appealed for peace and stability along interstate boundaries, noting that recurring border tensions have disrupted agricultural and livestock activities.
Concerning natural calamities and climate change, the Union highlighted that farmers continue to suffer from floods, heavy rains, droughts, and changing weather conditions, yet government relief remains minimal. It called for stronger disaster management systems and sustainable land conservation measures.
On the matter of sapling and quality management, the HFU urged the government to supply high-quality seedlings, provide training in nutrient management, and guide farmers in adopting climate-resilient crops.
Regarding the state’s agricultural policy, the Union encouraged the government to promote climate-smart farming, boost agricultural research, ensure fair pricing, and offer adequate subsidies.
It also emphasized the need for crop studies on pineapple and jackfruit, supported by practices such as crop rotation, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and modern irrigation technology.
In terms of seed quality and security, the HFU demanded the creation of seed banks, proper seed certification, and support for farmers to produce and distribute quality seeds.
On market intervention and corpus fund, the Union urged the government to protect farmers from market crashes and to make effective use of the agricultural fund to strengthen rural markets.
Finally, addressing debt and financial relief, the HFU called for the restructuring of farm loans, low-interest credit support, and financial literacy programmes to help farmers manage their resources more efficiently.
