The State government had procured over 500 metric tons of broom grass and disbursed Rs 4.76 crore to support farmers in distress.
This was informed by Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh in the Assembly today while replying to a question raised by Amlarem MLA Lahkmen Rymbui on the reasons behind the price drop of broom grass.
Lyngdoh informed that in 2022-23, the state produced 66,831 metric tons of broomsticks with a modal price of Rs 12,188 per quintal. In 2023-24, production increased to 75,680 metric tons, but the price dropped to Rs 8,400 per quintal. For 2024-25, production estimates are still being calculated, while the price has further fallen to Rs 4,685 per quintal.
She highlighted the CM Assure, a state government market intervention scheme designed to stabilize prices for non-perishable commodities when market rates decline. Under this initiative, the government procures broom grass at a fixed price through the Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing Board, aggregating supplies from farmer collectives and individual aggregators.
Lyngdoh explained that the government, through its marketing board, stores the broom grass and waits for prices to rise before selling it. She added that the administration is also focusing on value addition by training farmers on improving the durability and marketability of broomsticks. The scheme, which started as a pilot project, has proven effective, prompting the government to expand it with a Rs 100-crore revolving fund to assist farmers during times of distress.
Rymbui urged the government to explore new markets for Meghalaya’s broomsticks so that the burden does not fall entirely on the state. Lyngdoh confirmed that the government is actively engaging with agencies like TRIFED and the central government to create better market linkages. She also acknowledged growing competition from neighbouring states that have recently started cultivating broom grass.
