Shillong, April 25, 2026: The monthly Farmers’ Market in Shillong is steadily gaining popularity among locals, creating a vibrant platform for direct sales between farmers and consumers while supporting agricultural livelihoods in Meghalaya.
The April 2026 edition, held on April 18 at the Directorate of Fisheries parking lot in Risa Colony (opposite St. Edmund’s College), attracted around 600 visitors. This turnout reflects the growing interest in the initiative since its launch in January 2026. The market featured fresh produce including potatoes, coriander, and spring onion (locally known as jyllang), sourced directly from farmers across various districts of the state, aligning with seasonal availability.
Organized by 1917 iTEAMS under the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, in collaboration with the Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission (MFEC), the market emphasizes a farm-to-consumer model. This approach eliminates middlemen, enabling farmers to secure better prices and achieve fuller sell-outs. Participants, including first-time sellers from Ri Bhoi and East Jaintia Hills, reported improved market access and more sustainable earnings. Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and producer organizations also showcased value-added products, adding diversity to the offerings.
Visitors enjoyed not only fresh, often organic local produce at reasonable prices but also engaging attractions such as a live kitchen demonstration using the focus crops and performances of local music. A hyperlocal e-commerce platform partnered for the event to facilitate bulk procurement and extend the market’s reach beyond the physical venue.
Earlier editions highlighted the market’s rotating seasonal focus: oranges and pumpkins in January, followed by strawberries, black pepper, bananas, and sesame in subsequent months. This variety keeps the event dynamic and relevant to Meghalaya’s agricultural calendar.
The initiative aligns with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s vision for building a resilient agricultural sector. By establishing reliable direct marketing channels, the market helps reduce post-harvest losses, enhances rural incomes, and strengthens the link between smallholder farmers and urban consumers in the hills.
With consistent crowds and positive feedback from both sellers and buyers, Shillong’s Farmers’ Market is proving to be a win-win model. It not only empowers local farmers with greater bargaining power and visibility but also provides city dwellers access to fresher, traceable produce. Organizers anticipate continued growth, with potential for more editions and expanded participation in the coming months.
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