SHILLONG : Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday held a meeting with members of the Hill Farmers Union (HFU) at the State Guest House near Woodlake to discuss the demands raised by the farmers’ organisation during its recent public agitation.
The HFU had earlier taken to the streets to highlight issues affecting pig farmers, including a protest march during which the farmers also brought pigs to draw attention to their concerns.
After the meeting with the Chief Minister, HFU president Commander Shangpliang told media persons that the Union had raised several demands before the government.
Among the key demands is compensation for pig farmers who suffered losses following the death of pigs due to disease outbreaks, which the Union said were linked to the entry of pigs from outside the state.
The HFU also urged the government to establish check-up points and quarantine centres along border areas through which livestock and other goods enter and leave the state.
According to the Union, such facilities would help authorities monitor the health of livestock entering Meghalaya, including pigs, poultry and other animals, and prevent the spread of diseases.
Shangpliang further said the Union has requested the government to consider waiving loans taken by pig farmers under the Piggery Mission, citing the difficulties faced by farmers in the sector.
The HFU also raised concerns over the declining prices of agricultural produce. The Union urged the government to introduce a policy aimed at ensuring better and more stable prices for farmers’ produce.
The meeting focused on measures that could address the difficulties faced by farmers and strengthen the agriculture and livestock sectors in the state.