New horizons for farmers

Shillong, Jan. 16: The Year of the Farmer, initiated by the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government, ended today with a clarion call asking them to take up new methods of farming.

The farming community in the state is a neglected lot, even though the state accords highest priority to the farmers and more than 75 per cent of the people depend on farming for their livelihood. Moreover, the farmers in the state are yet to get familiar with the use of modern technology in farming.

At a function held at the state central library as a part of the culmination of the farmers' year, additional chief secretary W.M.S. Pariat said farmers in the state should use new methods and explore the use of modern equipment. The farmers need to do this in order to meet the growing demand in the market.

According to Pariat, the farmers can also grow new and different varieties of vegetables and fruits in the state, as there is a great demand for the products outside Meghalaya.