Meghalaya is a land of breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity. For generations, its farmers have relied on shifting cultivation, an age-old practice of rotating plots to grow food. But as demand for crops has grown, the shortened cycles have begun to strain the land, leaving soil depleted and communities vulnerable.
The North East India Committee on Relief and Development (NEICORD) has become a lifeline for farmers like Seilung Shylla. Through workshops and hands-on training, the organization builds capacity in both farming and marketing, helping communities adapt to modern challenges while honoring traditional wisdom.
One of the most significant shifts has been toward agro-horti plantations, integrating citrus and other fruit crops with sustainable practices. Alongside this, water harvesting structures and fishery ponds have been introduced, ensuring that farmland retains moisture and supports diverse livelihoods.
In Byrwa village of Ri Bhoi district, one woman farmer’s story reflects this turning point. “We have benefited a lot from NEICORD, especially for an old woman like me,” shares Seilung Shylla. “Since I joined this group, I have gained confidence and knowledge. They provided seeds for horticulture plants like lemon, pineapple, orange, and others. They also conducted many trainings on new farming methods to improve crops.”
Meghalaya’s government restricts the use of chemical inputs, preserving the state’s natural environment. Yet farmers face another formidable challenge: rapid climate change. Erratic rainfall and rising temperatures have begun to affect productivity, making it harder to meet food demand.
Conservation efforts, however, are showing promise. Water resource management has improved soil moisture, leading to healthier crops and more reliable harvests. Farmers are discovering that resilience lies not in returning to old methods, but in embracing innovation rooted in sustainability.
For Seilung, the transformation is not only about crops but also about dignity. “I have gained a lot of confidence and knowledge,” she says. What began as training sessions has blossomed into a community of farmers who share seeds, skills, and solidarity.
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