Shillong, March 22: A monthly farmers’ market in Shillong is steadily gaining traction as a platform connecting growers, consumers and local enterprises, with organisers promoting it as a scalable model for direct farm-to-market trade in Meghalaya.
The March edition, held at the Directorate of Fisheries parking area near St. Edmund’s College, showcased seasonal produce sourced from across the state. Strawberries, bananas and sesame seeds featured prominently, alongside a variety of locally grown organic products.
The initiative is organised by 1917 iTEAMS under the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, with support from the Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission. Officials said the primary objective is to minimise dependence on intermediaries, enabling farmers to directly access consumers and secure better returns.
Participants highlighted the opportunities created by the platform, particularly for first-time sellers. A strawberry grower associated with a self-help group described the experience as her first exposure to such a marketplace, noting that it allowed her to bring and sell produce directly.
Community organisations also underscored the initiative’s broader social impact. Representatives linked to Bethany Society said the market promotes inclusive livelihoods by enabling participation from persons with disabilities, women and rural communities.
The event also featured participation from SOMOI, a hyperlocal quick-commerce platform sourcing produce directly from farmers. Its representatives noted a steady rise in demand, supported by increasing sales and app-based orders that are expanding market reach.
Organisers said collaborations of this nature are critical to strengthening the state’s agricultural supply chain. By linking rural producers with urban consumers on a recurring basis, the initiative is expected to improve price transparency while supporting long-term sustainability.
The market also included a live kitchen segment led by members of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras, who prepared dishes using featured crops, along with performances by artists associated with the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project.
