Shillong: The Meghalaya government will not set a blanket support price for all farm produce. Farmers currently face distress from market crashes and delayed paddy planting caused by erratic rain. Agriculture Minister Timothy D Shira confirmed the decision on Thursday. He cited the massive expenditure required for a universal pricing model.
The state intends to stabilize market volatility through new infrastructure. Officials will fund cold storage and processing units rather than direct price supports. “Price fluctuations are common. To address this, we must develop policies so farmers do not face such situations in the future,” Shira said.
Expanding infrastructure remains the primary goal. New spice processing units in Bhoirymbong and Jaintia Hills already pushed up local turmeric prices. These facilities empower cooperative societies. Farmers now sell directly to buyers and cut out middlemen who previously dictated the profit margins.
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