SHILLONG, Aug. 9: Meghalaya’s monthly Farmers’ Market has completed its eighth edition, attracting more than 5,000 visitors cumulatively and providing local farmers with a direct platform to sell their produce to consumers.
The August edition in Shillong featured seasonal produce such as cabbage, maize and pineapple, along with locally grown fruits, vegetables and value-added products. Organisers said participation from farmers and consumers had remained steady since the market was launched.
The market is organised by 1917 iTEAMS under the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, with support from the Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission. It aims to shorten the supply chain between producers and consumers and improve farmers’ access to urban markets.
The platform has also enabled farmers to assess consumer demand for locally and organically grown produce.
Aroma Talang from Thadmuthlong B in West Jaintia Hills, who participated for the second time, said she started organic farming in 2025 and found the market useful for showcasing her produce and reaching customers directly.
Store Kharlukhi from Kdiap in Thadlaskein, who participated for the first time, said several of her products were sold out within hours of opening. She said the response encouraged her to participate in future editions.
The initiative has also expanded through a partnership with Shillong-based hyperlocal delivery platform SOMOI, enabling market produce to be delivered to households across the city. The arrangement has also created opportunities for local delivery partners.
Consumers have welcomed the freshness, quality and affordability of the produce, while direct interaction with farmers has provided them with greater insight into local farming practices.
With eight editions completed and cumulative footfall exceeding 5,000, the Farmers’ Market is emerging as a regular link between Meghalaya’s farmers and urban consumers.
