State Hosts Programme to Celebrate Community Contributions to Development and Livelihoods

A programme celebrating the communities of Meghalaya for their efforts toward community- driven progress and livelihood improvement took place on November 29, 2024, at the State Convention Centre in Shillong. Named Community Talks, the event, now in its second edition, was organized by the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA) as part of the Meghalaya Livelihoods and Access to Markets Project (Megha-LAMP), an Externally Aided Project of the Government of Meghalaya supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

During the event, 12 communities and individuals from across the State were honored for their contributions. They shared their experiences and practical knowledge on topics such as traditional farming practices, women empowerment, farmer collectivization, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and community organization. First launched in December 2022, this initiative continues to highlight success stories and good practices that often remain underrecognized due to limited documentation or exposure, aiming to ensure wider dissemination.

Speaking at the event, Shri Gunanka D.B., IFS, Joint Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya and Executive Director of the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA), underscored the centrality of communities to developmental initiatives in Meghalaya. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that such efforts are sustainable only when communities are actively involved. He highlighted that most MBMA and MBDA projects are community-led, with challenges identified by the people and solutions developed collaboratively, ensuring successes result from the communities' own efforts.

Shri Gunanka stressed the significance of forums like Community Talks, which inspire others by showcasing achievements. He also highlighted the value of exposure visits and cross-learning opportunities, facilitated nationally and internationally, in motivating and equipping communities for greater accomplishments. He concluded by emphasizing the empowerment of community stewards and leaders, stating that sustainable development is achievable only when such individuals take charge. He urged these champions to scale up their successful initiatives, set an example for others, and encourage the rise of new leaders who can contribute to their communities' development. While state-level programmes like Community Talks bring visibility, he suggested organizing similar initiatives at the block and village levels to strengthen connections with grassroots communities.

In his address, Nirajan Khadka from IFAD emphasized the significance of learning and knowledge exchange and the role of community gatherings as platforms for collaboration and shared progress. He reaffirmed IFAD's commitment to empowering farmers and advancing rural development, particularly by supporting smallholders, marginalized groups, and inclusive growth.

The event witnessed participation from over 300 community members across the State, officials from various state government departments, and representatives of development agencies.