The District Horticulture Officer, South West Khasi Hills District today organised a District Level Crop Competition and Horticulture exhibition in its office premises at Laitlawsang, Mawkyrwat.
A total of 10 stalls were set up, exhibiting food products, honey, fruit jam, and fruit juice from food processing units, along with a wide range of horticultural produce such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers etc. exhibited by 150 farmers from various parts of the district. During the program, cash prizes and certificates were also presented to the winners of the Crop Competition.
District Horticulture Officer B. Sungoh highlighted how the office has been actively supporting farmers in border areas with various schemes for cultivating crops like dragon fruit, cinnamon, and cashew nuts trees etc.
He informed the government initiatives through the District Horticulture Office to promote the cultivation of fruits like kiwi, strawberry, and also mushroom farming, as well as efforts under the Apiculture Mission to boost honey production in the district.
Mawkyrwat MLA, Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar said the dedication and hard work of farmers have led to significant achievements, which have positively transformed their livelihoods and emphasised their crucial role in sustaining the population.
He further urged farmers to adopt organic farming practices by using organic manure instead of chemical fertilizers for cultivation. He noted that many consumers have long hoped for organic produce, as it is believed to be healthier and safer. He also encouraged farmers to select specific crops, fruits, or vegetables best suited to their local conditions, and focus on cultivating a single type to enhance the quantity, quality and nutritional value of their produce. He also advised the farmers to visit the District Horticulture Office to obtain seeds and saplings that are specifically suited to their area’s cultivation needs.
According to Tongkhar, the district climate is perfect for cultivating mushrooms and kiwifruit.
Block Development Officer, I Lawriniang said the exhibition offers farmers a platform to showcase and sell their horticultural produce and also provides an opportunity for them to interact and exchange valuable insights and suggestions with farmers from across the district. He encouraged the farmers to view the exhibition as a valuable opportunity to consult with officials about the schemes and support available from the District Horticulture Office, while also sharing their concerns so that these issues could be addressed, ultimately helping to enhance their cultivation practices moving forward.
Others who spoke were Mawkyrwat MDC Carnes Sohshang, E. Shadap, Assistant Director, District Agriculture Office among others.
