Meghalaya tribals receive farming equipment to enhance efficiency

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in Meghalaya has provided new farming equipment to local farmers. This is part of their Tribal Sub-Plan project aimed at supporting tribal communities. On Saturday, ICAR distributed 15 turmeric washing machines and 15 turmeric slicers. These machines are being given to farmers in several districts, including Ri-Bhoi and the Jaintia and Khasi Hills areas. The recipients are members of self-help groups and cooperative societies. The new equipment is designed to make farming easier and more efficient. The machines are pedal-operated and user-friendly. The turmeric washer can clean up to 12 kilograms of turmeric in just 2 to 3 minutes. The slicer can process 48 kilograms of turmeric per hour, producing uniform slices for better drying and quality. Each machine costs about Rs 25,000 and is available at the ICAR Regional Centre in Umiam. This initiative is part of efforts to improve post-harvest processes for farmers in Meghalaya.