Shillong, Jan 31: Six custom hiring centres have been set up across different districts of the state to address the challenges of farm mechanization by providing essential agricultural equipment on a rental basis.
Informing this, the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam said while two of these custom hiring centres (CHCs) were established earlier, four new ones have been recently set up to further empower farmers with modern agricultural tools and technology.
The four newly established CHCs are located at Bankyntiew SHG of Umket Village in Umket Village, Ri Bhoi; Kynhun Dorbar Into Village Cooperative Society in Umktieh Mawkhim, Ri Bhoi; Purangang Custom Hiring Centre in Purangang Marngar at Ri Bhoi; and Laryntihlang (FACT) Integrated Village Cooperative Society at Umphrew in East Khasi Hills.
The two previously established CHCs are at Mawsiatkhnam Custom Hiring Centre in Mawsiatkhnam village, East Khasi Hills and Nalapara Custom Hiring Centre in Nalapara, Marngar, Ri Bhoi.
Through these centres, the ICAR aims to strengthen farm mechanization and improve agricultural productivity in Meghalaya, thereby reducing the financial burden on small and marginal farmers. Each centre is equipped with power tillers, weeders, sprayers, crop washers, seed drills, paddy threshers, mini rice mills, hatchery units, and other specialized farm tools, tailored to the needs of local farmers.
Each centre has been equipped with farm machinery worth ₹5–10 lakhs, benefiting thousands of farmers. The newly developed CHCs were officially installed on August 7, 2024, with MoUs signed on August 6, 2024, while the earlier CHCs have been serving farmers since 2017 and 2021.
According to ICAR officials, these CHCs will enhance agricultural efficiency, reduce drudgery, and promote sustainable farming practices. By providing affordable and accessible mechanization services, the initiative is expected to increase crop yield, optimize labor, and improve farm income.
