RUPA, 28 Aug: Twenty-nine memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed during a two-day buyer-seller meet organised here by the West Kameng district horticulture officer from 27 to 28 August.
The programme aimed at providing a common platform for local farmers, self-help groups (SHGs), farmer-producer companies (FPCs), farmer-producer groups (FPGs), entrepreneurs, and buyers to establish direct market linkages and promote locally produced agro-horticultural products.
The event was inaugurated by West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar, who emphasised the importance of strengthening market linkages, value addition, and ensuring better price realisation for farmers. He highlighted that such initiatives play a crucial role in connecting producers directly with buyers, reducing market barriers, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for farming communities.
The inaugural programme was attended by SP Dr Dorjee Wangdi Thungon, along with PRI members, heads of departments, heads of offices, representatives of allied departments, entrepreneurs, farmers, and other stakeholders.
Following the inaugural session, the dignitaries visited stalls displaying a wide range of locally produced agro-horticultural products. An interactive session between buyers and sellers was subsequently held, during which discussions focused on product quality, quantity, grading, packaging, pricing, transportation, and mechanisms for regular procurement.
The first day of the event witnessed the signing of three MoUs between buyers and sellers.
On the concluding day, participants continued deliberations and business interactions, leading to the signing of 26 additional MoUs.
The agreements covered a variety of agro-horticultural products, including kiwi, persimmon, kidney beans, Sichuan pepper, soybean, star anise, sweet corn, turmeric, ginger, maize, walnut and other dry fruits, and large cardamom.
The signing of 29 MoUs during the buyer-seller meet marked a significant step towards strengthening market access for farmers and promoting the commercial cultivation and marketing of horticultural produce in the district.
The initiative is expected to enhance income opportunities for farmers while fostering long-term partnerships between producers and buyers.
The programme concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing confidence that the linkages established during the event would contribute significantly to the growth of the horticulture sector and the economic development of West Kameng district. (DIPRO)
