Shillong, November 29, 2024: The Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA) organized the second edition of Community Talks at the State Convention Centre, Shillong, to celebrate the impactful contributions of Meghalaya’s communities toward development and livelihoods. The initiative, under the Meghalaya Livelihoods and Access to Markets Project (Megha-LAMP), is supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
During the event, 12 communities and individuals were honored for their achievements in areas such as traditional farming, women empowerment, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion. These success stories serve as inspiration for others and highlight practices often overlooked due to limited exposure.
Shri Gunanka D.B., IFS, Joint Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya and Executive Director of MBDA, emphasized the importance of community-driven projects, noting that the success of initiatives depends on collaboration and grassroots involvement. He highlighted the value of forums like Community Talks in showcasing achievements and fostering cross-learning opportunities to motivate communities.
He encouraged scaling up successful initiatives and organizing similar programmes at block and village levels to deepen the connection with grassroots communities, ensuring sustainable development through empowered local leaders.
Nirajan Khadka, IFAD representative, reiterated the importance of knowledge-sharing platforms in advancing rural development and supporting marginalized groups and smallholders.
The event was attended by over 300 community members, state officials, and representatives from various development agencies, reinforcing the collective commitment to community-driven progress.
