Shillong: The North East Society for Agroecology Support held an event Friday in Shillong to mark the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. The gathering focused on the theme of honouring indigenous midwives and safeguarding local well-being. It brought together community members, researchers, and government officials to celebrate farmers as guardians of regional biodiversity.
Executive Director Pius Ranee announced the wrap-up of a three-year project with IPAF-Tebtebba. The initiative expanded its reach from five to 25 cooperative societies. Ranee also detailed how the group integrates wild edibles and local crops into student meals. Local communities contribute valuable insights, which participants shared during a segment titled Voices from the Ground.
Speakers underscored the value of traditional practices. Pemodini M. Sangma highlighted shifting cultivation as a tool for environmental restoration and self-sufficiency. Shalmistar Khongngain told the audience that youths carry a specific duty to maintain indigenous identity through language and custom. DBS Mukhim, an official with the Commissionerate of Food Safety, praised these efforts. He described local communities as “natural scientists” for their harmony with nature.
The event awarded several local contributors. Sambor Kongngain earned the title of Indigenous Youth Champion, while Barida Khongngain won the Best PM POSHAN Cook award. The Mawstep Presbyterian SSA LP School took honors for its nature-based meals, and the Ladmawphlang Primary Agroecology Cooperative Society was named best in its category.
Performers showcased cultural heritage through the Bom Krai millet threshing festival and the Sok Rep Ki Nong hill paddy sowing dance. The day ended with an exhibition of handlooms, traditional handicrafts, and seed banks.
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