April farmers’ market in Shillong celebrates seasonal agri produce

Shillong: The April edition of the monthly farmers’ market, organised by 1917 iTEAMS under the state dept of agriculture & farmers’ welfare and supported by the Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission, was held in Shillong on Saturday, drawing around 600 people.The focus crops for this month included potatoes, coriander and spring onion, locally called ‘jyllang’, sourced directly from farmers across various districts, reflecting the seasonal agricultural produce in Meghalaya.“The initiative, since Jan 2026, continues to align with the vision of CM Conrad K Sangma, by improving livelihoods for farmers, enhancing better market opportunities, and promoting a resilient and self-sufficient agricultural economy in the state,” an official said.“The farmers’ market operates as a vital element in the state’s efforts to transform agricultural marketing practices and establish direct channels between farmers and consumers,” the official said.A solo entrepreneur under Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, Bansaralin Mukhim, who participated in the farmers’ market for the first time, expresses her delight for the opportunity to showcase her produce, both at this market and at the traditional market in Iewduh, Shillong.A tourist from Kolkata, who visited the market, highlights the presence of ‘unique edibles’ in the hills, like bamboo smoked fish, which he said, is rare in his city.