The ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill (NEH) Region, Umiam, under the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) project, distributed 15 turmeric washers and 15 turmeric slicer machines to farmers from different districts of Meghalaya, including Ri-Bhoi, East and West Jaintia Hills, South West Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills and East Khasi Hills.
The beneficiaries included members of self-help groups (SHGs) and cooperative societies. The distributed machines, which are pedal-operated, are aimed at reducing drudgery and improving post-harvest efficiency. The turmeric washer can clean up to 12kg in just 2–3 minutes, while the slicers can cut 48kg per hour into uniform slices, promoting even drying and improved powder quality. Each machine costs approximately Rs 25,000 and is available at ICAR RC NEH, Umiam.
Before the distribution, approximately 35 farmers underwent hands-on training on machine operation, maintenance and custom hiring centre management, conducted by Naseeb Singh, the inventor of the machines.
Formal agreements were signed between SHG/cooperative presidents, the TSP Nodal Officer and the Director to ensure responsible usage and upkeep of the equipment. Addressing the gathering, VK Mishra, Director, ICAR RC for NEH Region, and S Hazarika, TSP Nodal Officer, emphasised ICAR’s continued efforts toward empowering tribal farmers and urged the beneficiaries to use the machines effectively for the collective benefit of their communities.
