The South West Khasi Hills unit of the Federation of Khasi, Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) has pointed out the potential the district has in becoming a major meat supplier for the whole of Meghalaya.
The pressure group met Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister AL Hek in relation to the setting up of model poultry and piggery farms in the district.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the FKJGP said that Meghalaya has a demand of 80,000 tonnes of meat that is mainly bought from other states and this contributes to the high prices that the common man has to pay.
In order for Meghalaya to become self-sufficient in meat production, the state government should encourage individuals and self-help groups (SGHs) by providing them with help.
South West Khasi Hills has land in abundance for meat rearing projects that will also bring down the price of meat products, the FKJGP told the minister. Hek, meanwhile, assured the delegation that he will study the proposal and promised help through various existing schemes for the district’s farmers.
