Northeast Desk, September 4, 2024 — In a continued effort to bolster agricultural development, the Government of Meghalaya, under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, has allocated ₹100 crore to provide the third tranche of funds under the FOCUS scheme for the fiscal year 2024-25. This significant allocation reaffirms the government’s commitment to supporting the state’s farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural growth.
The FOCUS (Farmers’ Collectivization for Upscaling Production and Marketing Systems) scheme, which has been a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural strategy, aims to provide direct financial assistance to farmers, enabling them to enhance productivity and access better market opportunities.
In addition to the ongoing FOCUS scheme, CM Conrad Sangma recently launched a new flagship program called CM FARM+ on August 7, 2024. This initiative is designed to further empower farmers by providing a comprehensive support system that includes access to high-value crop farming, training on best agricultural practices, and the transfer of knowledge related to agricultural production.
The launch event, held in the Nongpoh area of Ri Bhoi district, was marked by CM Sangma’s personal interaction with local farmers. The Chief Minister, accompanied by Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, distributed plantation materials to beneficiaries, symbolizing the government’s hands-on approach to agricultural development.
CM FARM+ represents a strategic expansion of the state’s agricultural policies, focusing on increasing the income of farmers by diversifying their crops and improving the quality of agricultural produce. The initiative also seeks to address the challenges faced by farmers in remote areas by providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge to optimize their farming practices.
Chief Minister Sangma emphasized the importance of these initiatives in driving Meghalaya’s agricultural sector towards greater self-sufficiency and resilience. “Our farmers are the backbone of our economy, and through programs like FOCUS and CM FARM+, we are committed to ensuring that they have the resources and support they need to thrive,” Sangma stated.
The dual approach of providing direct financial assistance through FOCUS and the strategic support offered by CM FARM+ is expected to significantly contribute to the overall growth of the agricultural sector in Meghalaya, ultimately leading to improved livelihoods for farmers across the state.