Meghalaya MLA Advocates for Comprehensive Agricultural Price Protection Policy

Shillong, India Jul 25, 2026 ALN: Voice of the People Party MLA, Heavingstone Kharpran, on Friday urged the Meghalaya government to formulate a comprehensive agricultural price protection policy and provide additional financial assistance of Rs 4,000 to farmers over and above the Rs 6,000 they receive annually under the Centre’s PM-KISAN scheme to cushion them against recurring market failures.

Kharpran made the appeal after meeting Agriculture Minister Timothy D Shira and submitting a memorandum to him, highlighting the severe hardships faced by farmers, particularly due to the sharp fall in the prices of agricultural produce. The need for such a policy has become increasingly urgent as farmers in Meghalaya grapple with a volatile market that does not reflect the true value of their hard work and investment.

Later, the Mawryngkneng MLA told reporters that the additional financial assistance from the state would offer much-needed relief to farmers struggling to sustain their livelihoods amid mounting losses. The current economic climate has forced many farmers to reconsider their farming practices and explore alternative sources of income, often leading to a decline in agricultural productivity.

Kharpran said Shira assured him that the matter would be placed before Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma for consideration. This engagement between the MLA and the Agriculture Minister highlights the importance of dialogue between elected representatives and government officials in addressing the pressing issues faced by the agricultural sector.

Kharpran noted that many cultivators had been forced to take bank loans to continue farming activities. The reliance on loans has created a cycle of debt that many farmers find difficult to escape. He suggested that the government could examine the possibility of waiving such loans to ease their financial burden, a move that could potentially provide immediate relief and encourage farmers to continue their agricultural practices without the looming threat of financial ruin.

In the memorandum, he said that the present market situation has become “extremely alarming,” with cabbage farmers being compelled to sell their produce at prices far below the actual cost of cultivation, harvesting, and transportation. This alarming trend is indicative of a larger systemic issue within the agricultural market, where the lack of a supportive framework results in significant losses for farmers.

Kharpran noted that the crisis is not confined to cabbage alone, stating that several seasonal vegetables and horticultural crops witness drastic price crashes during peak harvest seasons due to oversupply, lack of organised procurement, inadequate storage facilities, and the absence of an effective price support mechanism. The oversupply situation often arises from the unpredictability of market demands, which farmers cannot control, leading to a situation where they are left with unsold produce and financial losses.

The recurring price volatility resulted in substantial financial losses for the farmers, many of whom were unable to recover even their production costs, leading to increasing indebtedness, financial insecurity, and declining interest among the younger generation in taking up agriculture. This generational shift away from agriculture could have long-term implications for food security and rural development in Meghalaya, as fewer young people are willing to engage in farming practices that are perceived as unprofitable.

Describing agriculture as the backbone of the rural Meghalaya economy, Kharpran stressed that market failures could and should be addressed through effective government intervention. The agricultural sector is not only vital for sustaining livelihoods but also plays a crucial role in maintaining the cultural and social fabric of rural communities.

Among the key measures he proposed are the formulation of a State Agricultural Price Protection Policy, introduction of a Minimum Support Price or State Assured Procurement Mechanism for selected horticultural crops, creation of a Price Stabilisation Fund, strengthening of government procurement centres during harvest seasons, and establishment of modern cold storage facilities, warehouses, and collection centres. These measures aim to create a more resilient agricultural infrastructure that can withstand market fluctuations and provide farmers with the support they need to thrive.

He further called for the promotion of food processing and value-addition industries, improved market linkages through better transportation networks, introduction of crop planning and market intelligence systems, strengthening of Farmer Producer Organisations and cooperatives, and constitution of a high-level committee to study recurring price crashes and recommend long-term policy reforms. These initiatives could help farmers maximize their profits and reduce waste, ultimately leading to a more sustainable agricultural economy.

“Our farmers do not seek charity; they seek fairness,” Kharpran said, adding that cultivators deserve a system that ensures remunerative prices and protects them from market volatility. This statement underscores the need for a fair and equitable agricultural system that recognizes the hard work and dedication of farmers while providing them with the tools and resources necessary to succeed.

He urged the state government to initiate immediate relief measures for the affected farmers and frame a sustainable policy framework that guarantees price security and income stability for the farming community across the state. The call for action is not just about addressing current challenges but also about laying the groundwork for a more prosperous future for agriculture in Meghalaya.

The implications of Kharpran's advocacy for a comprehensive agricultural price protection policy extend beyond immediate financial relief. A robust policy framework could lead to increased investment in agriculture, improved infrastructure, and a renewed interest in farming among younger generations. By fostering a more supportive environment for farmers, Meghalaya could strengthen its agricultural sector, enhance food security, and contribute to the overall economic development of the state.

In conclusion, the ongoing dialogue between legislators and government officials regarding agricultural policy highlights the critical need for comprehensive solutions to the challenges faced by farmers in Meghalaya. By addressing price volatility, enhancing support mechanisms, and promoting sustainable practices, the state can ensure a more resilient agricultural sector that not only supports farmers but also contributes to the broader economic landscape of the region.