SHILLONG, Sept 14: Three baskets of sohiong brought by an organic farmer from Meghalaya’s Mairang sold out by the first half of the day at Shillong’s monthly Farmers’ Market, highlighting strong demand for seasonal and locally grown produce.
Simendaris Ryntathiang from Mairang in Eastern West Khasi Hills was participating in the market for the second time. Along with sohiong, she brought other farm produce, which she said also sold during the day. She said she would bring a larger quantity if given another opportunity.
The September edition featured seasonal produce including sohiong, tomatoes, fruits, vegetables and value-added products sourced from farmers across Meghalaya.
The monthly market has so far brought together more than 300 farmers from across the state over nine editions, giving them an opportunity to sell directly to consumers in Shillong. Through a partnership with homegrown quick-commerce platform SOMOI, produce from the market can also be delivered to households across the city.
For first-time participants, the market has provided an opportunity to test demand among urban buyers. Philisha Mynsong from Mawjam in Mawkynrew and Rhinda Susngi from Thadlaskein in West Jaintia Hills said the platform had helped them take their farm produce directly to consumers.
Now nine months old, the market has emerged as a regular point of contact between Meghalaya’s farmers and consumers in Shillong, with seasonal produce such as sohiong attracting buyers alongside everyday fruits and vegetables.
