State Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh informed the Assembly that the Meghalaya government has spent ₹4.76 crore to purchase 500 metric tons of broomsticks from farmers during the 2024-25 financial year to support them against price fluctuations.
Responding to a question raised by Amlarem MLA Lahkmen Rymbui in the Budget session on Thursday, Ampareen Lyngdoh stated that the procurement was done under the Procurement and Aggregation Scheme, implemented by the Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing Board.
She explained that the initiative aims to assist farmers only during periods of price drops, ensuring they do not face financial hardship. The funds for the scheme were allocated to various groups responsible for purchasing broomsticks directly from farmers.
The minister also highlighted that broomstick prices fluctuate due to competition from other states like Assam, where broom cultivation is also prevalent.
Adding to the discussion, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma mentioned that Meghalaya has designated broomstick-growing regions to further support farmers engaged in its cultivation.
