The National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) is stepping up efforts to expand cooperative activities in Meghalaya, with a focus on emerging sectors such as tourism, transport and organic farming.
During a recent interaction in Shillong, the Regional Director of NCDC, Guwahati, held discussions with Methodius Dkhar, Minister of Cooperation, Government of Meghalaya, on various schemes and programmes being implemented in the state. These include initiatives related to Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and Fishery Producer Organisations (FPPOs), aimed at strengthening grassroots economic activities.
The meeting highlighted the potential for promoting cooperatives in areas such as homestays, taxi services, rural tourism and organic farming. Both sides emphasised the importance of leveraging local resources and community participation to drive sustainable development through cooperative models.
The Minister stressed the need to actively involve youth in the cooperative movement, noting that their participation could bring innovation, energy and competitiveness to the sector.
In a related development, the NCDC delegation also visited the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), where discussions were held with senior officials on expanding cooperative initiatives and aligning them with central government programmes.