SHILLONG: A major push towards strengthening sustainable rural livelihoods and preserving indigenous food systems was marked with the successful completion of the first phase of a nature-based livelihood initiative led by the North East Society for Agroecology Support, with support from LIC Housing Finance Limited under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.
The initiative was celebrated during the “Celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Food Systems for Nature-based Livelihoods” held at Mawstep village in East Khasi Hills on February 25, bringing together partner communities, cooperative societies, stakeholders, and local leaders from across Meghalaya.
A key highlight of the programme was the launch of the Mei-Ramew Farmer’s Market and Mei-Ramew Café, aimed at creating structured market access for farmers while promoting indigenous and locally produced foods under the Mei-Ramew brand.
The project focuses on developing green economic opportunities rooted in traditional knowledge systems while addressing growing concerns such as rural unemployment and youth migration. Community-led initiatives under the programme include seed banks, nature-based school meal procurement, eco-tourism promotion, beekeeping, and training youth as Nature Guides.
Speaking at the event, NESFAS Executive Director Pius Ranee highlighted the organisation’s efforts to create livelihood opportunities within villages to reduce migration and reconnect communities with indigenous ecological knowledge.
Community representatives shared that CSR support enabled the restoration of degraded land, promotion of organic farming practices, and establishment of marketing and segregation centres for local produce, benefiting farmers, beekeepers, and economically vulnerable households.
The event also featured recognition of outstanding community contributions through awards for sustainable beekeeping, school nutrition programmes, and agroecology cooperative societies working to strengthen indigenous food systems.
Sohra Civil Sub-Divisional Officer Mark Andrew Challam, attending as Chief Guest, stressed that indigenous food traditions are deeply tied to cultural identity and hold significant potential for tourism-linked livelihood growth.
Cultural performances, thematic exhibitions, and an indigenous community feast marked the conclusion of the programme, reaffirming collective commitment toward biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable community-driven development across Meghalaya.
