Rural entrepreneurs carving a niche for themselves: DC M War Nongbri

A REPORTER

SHILLONG: To boost the morale of rural farmers and entrepreneurs, East Khasi Hills district Deputy Commissioner, M War Nongbri visited Kyiem and Thainthynroh villages and inspected a few producing units that have come up through interventions of various projects. Nongbri, who is also the Chairman of the 'Basin Development Unit' of the district, in an attempt to ensure that all projects are properly implemented, met the farmers and producers of these villages.

The DC first inspected the piggery unit in Kyiem village and was informed that the unit was constructed under the MGNREGS schemes. The farm is run and managed by the 'Kyiem Integrated Village Co-operative Society' (IVCS) established in 2017 under the MLAMP Project. The district veterinary department supplies piglets to the farm, which will function both as a fattening-and-breeding unit of local as well as halfbreed bovine species. The IVCS members informed the DC that the IVCS -- comprising 180 members -- intends to improve conditions of farmers through proper inputs and assistant.

The IVCS also functions as a village-based bank with services of savings, loans and shares. Addressing the farmers here, Nongbri lauded the IVCS vision, and said that their concept will teach the farmers the principles of self-sufficiency. The DC also highlighted the importance of collective efforts for production and marketing. ''A strong and self-dependent co-operative society will go a long way in improving the development of a village and help improve the financial situation of poor households'', said Nongbri.

The DC also visited an ice cream manufacturing unit at Thainthynroh. The proprietor of the factory, Syrpailin Warjri, informed that she started ice cream production a few years ago by providing employment opportunities to the local youths. This unit has been recognized as one the biggest ice cream production units run by a female entrepreneur.

Although the recent COVID-19 situation has affected the business, Warjri is sure that better days will be there in the near future. Assisted by her family members, the unit has good prospects in the future.

A bakery unit in Umkaber village set up by local entrepreneur Mary Warjri was also inspected by DC Nongbri. This unit started before the lockdown period, has witnessed increasing sales and is now one of the most favoured vendors in the region with buyers coming from different villages. Here, Nongbri pressed upon the importance of branding and hygiene to ensure customers' trust and confidence.

Also Watch: The Mores: Lets Talk Lifestyle & Fashion