Shillong, June 26: Meghalaya’s Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma stated on Friday that the state’s unique matriarchal system, where women oversee land and farming, provides essential lessons for promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing food security worldwide.
Addressing an international conference on women farmers and sustainable organic farming at the State Convention Hall, Sangma emphasized the vital role of women in Meghalaya’s agriculture. Their ownership of land fosters a strong sense of responsibility, commitment, and sustainability in farming practices.
He noted that the state’s governance model has prioritized farmers, especially women, at the center of its development agenda over the past eight years. The government has implemented farmer-centric policies aimed at creating a robust and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.
Sangma remarked that instead of mimicking models from other regions, Meghalaya has adopted development strategies tailored to its geographical, cultural, and ecological characteristics.
Strengthening community institutions has been a primary focus. The significant growth of self-help groups and farmer producer organizations has facilitated collective efforts, improved market access, and enhanced rural livelihoods.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of preserving and promoting both modern scientific innovations and traditional agricultural knowledge from the Northeast. This region boasts a rich natural heritage that has sustained communities for generations. He called for integrating traditional knowledge with technology to boost productivity without compromising ecological balance.
Sangma urged that the Northeast should be viewed as an integrated region with shared ecological and cultural features. Such an approach would assist governments and stakeholders in scaling successful initiatives, attracting more investment, and creating a strong global impact in sustainable organic farming.
He also highlighted the importance of partnerships with institutions, development agencies, and the private sector to mobilize resources, encourage innovation, and expand the reach of organic farming initiatives, ensuring the protection of farmers’ interests.
The conference, organized by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare in collaboration with IFOAM and Organics Asia, brought together national and international representatives, policymakers, experts, and stakeholders. They discussed strengthening women-led farming, preserving natural heritage, and advancing sustainable organic farming practices through better collaboration and knowledge sharing.
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