The National Buyer-Seller Meet-cum-Exhibition concluded on a high note in Shillong, highlighting the importance of stronger market linkages, entrepreneurship, and innovation across Northeast India.
The valedictory programme featured the release of the Central Agricultural University, Imphal’s institutional profile video, farm magazine, and a series of publications on the agricultural transformation of Northeastern states.
Addressing the gathering, Additional Secretary of DARE and Secretary of ICAR, Gyanendra Dev Tripathi, stressed the need for innovation and value addition in agriculture while highlighting challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and connectivity.
ICAR Director Dr. Kadirvel Govindswamy called for better markets for indigenous products like black turmeric and urged stronger industry participation, certification systems, and institutional collaboration.
Representatives from the Government of Meghalaya, BSF, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and artisans also attended the event, appreciating the platform for connecting producers with buyers.
During the closing ceremony, Dr. Mehtab Chandee A. Sangma, MLA of Gambegre Constituency, distributed awards to outstanding exhibitors and encouraged artisans to preserve the Northeast’s rich cultural heritage while improving product quality, branding, and marketability for national and international markets.
Awards were presented across several categories, including weaving, handicrafts, GI-tagged products, eco-friendly products, innovation, and best seller. A special recognition was also given to “Honey of Meghalaya” for promoting premium indigenous honey and supporting local beekeepers.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from government agencies, research institutions, industry partners, farmers, and artisans to strengthen market ecosystems and create sustainable livelihood opportunities across the Northeast.
