Shillong, Feb 25: The Mawstep Primary Agroecology Cooperative Society, in collaboration with the North East Society for Agroecology Support (NESFAS) and supported by LIC HFL CSR, hosted a “Celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Food Systems for Nature-based Livelihoods” on February 25, 2026 at Mawstep, East Khasi Hills. The event marked the successful completion of the first phase of the LIC HFL-supported Special Project implemented by NESFAS.
A key highlight of the programme was the launch of the Mei-Ramew Farmer’s Market and the Mei-Ramew Cafe at Mawstep community, aimed at strengthening structured market access for local producers and promoting indigenous foods under the Mei Ramew franchise.
The celebration brought together 15 partner communities from two districts, along with 10 newly onboarded villages from East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi, alongside project partners, community leaders, cooperative members and other stakeholders. The event was also graced by Mr. Mark Andrew Challam, MCS, Sohra Civil Division Officer (SDO) as the Chief Guest.
Aligned with LIC HFL’s CSR commitment to sustainable community development and livelihood enhancement, the initiative focuses on building green, nature-based economic opportunities rooted in indigenous knowledge systems.
In response to rising unemployment and youth migration, the project strengthens community-led models including seed banks, local procurement for nature-based school meals, and farmer’s markets.
While placing special emphasis on youth livelihood development through training as Nature Guides, alongside skill-building in beekeeping and eco-tourism. By scaling these models, the initiative aims to protect biodiversity, improve local food systems, increase rural incomes, and build long-term resilience to climate change.
Mr. Betsing Rynjah, Headman of Mawstep, in his welcome address, emphasised the importance of preserving traditional food in their villages. He also shared that he works for community welfare and is glad to see people becoming more aware of economic opportunities. He hopes the collaboration with NESFAS will create new pathways and continue to open more opportunities, through the LIC HFL.
In his keynote address, Mr. Pius Ranee, Executive Director, NESFAS, highlighted the growing concern of migration in search of jobs, which saddens them when speaking with the youth.
However, he assured that efforts are being made to create opportunities locally for young people. He shared how inspiring it was to meet an elder who possesses knowledge of 504 tree species, a powerful reminder of the richness of indigenous wisdom.
Initiatives like the Mei-Ramew Cafe provide golden opportunities and traditional foods, are now being promoted in schools, encouraging children to consume fresh, local produce. He emphasised the goal of reconnecting closely with Mother Earth, expressed gratitude to LIC HFL for their partnership and stated that their work aims to benefit all while bringing in new ideas through nature-based livelihoods.
Mrs. Stialinda Khasain, Member of the Nongwah Primary Agroecology Cooperative Society, shared that their business plans became a reality only through the support of LIC HFL CSR. She highlighted that the nursery helped restore barren land, improving access to clean air and water.
The project has benefited beekeepers, supported indigenous seeds promotion, assisted poor households through piggery and established a segregation centre for better marketing of fruits and vegetables.
She also expressed happiness that Nongwah has opened a Mei-Ramew Cafe, strengthening the Cooperative, supporting farmers and contributing to the overall development of the village. In her speech she added, “Today, we practice organic farming, but in the past, we used chemical fertilisers and pesticides. It is because of NESFAS that we were able to shift towards organic methods. The farmers’ markets are also attracting cultivators and providing benefits and income for all of us.”
Vibrant cultural performances were presented by Nongwah Government LP School and Pyrda Primary Agroecology Cooperative Society through a dance and a meaningful couplet.
Mr Nestar Kharmawphlang, Chairperson, NESFAS shared, “I stand as a witness, as I have been associated with NESFAS for many years, and I am truly happy with the work that the organisation has done.” He added, “through the awareness initiatives of NESFAS, we have been able to consume fresh and nutritious vegetables. As a teacher, I have personally seen that children have started becoming healthier. We also want to encourage our children to eat traditional foods. I express my appreciation to the farmers and encourage them to continue working together for the progress of our villages and communities. Through the cafe, we hope it will bring development and become a tourist attraction.”
An award ceremony was organised to honour community members, institutions, and cooperative societies that have made significant contributions towards strengthening Indigenous livelihoods and food systems. The Beekeeping Champion Awards were presented to Mr. Sonsing Rynjah and family (Mawstep), Mr. Jeral Lating (Jatah Lakadong), Mr. Bre Suting (Umsawwar) and the Mawpynthymmai Primary Agroecology Cooperative Society for their outstanding efforts in promoting sustainable beekeeping practices.
The Best Performing School Meals Award was presented to Nongwah Government LP School in recognition of its commitment to providing nutritious, locally sourced meals to children. The Best Performing Primary Mei-Agroecology Cooperative Society Award was awarded to Itsohpair and Jatah Lakadong Primary Agroecology Cooperative Societies for their exemplary work in strengthening community-led food systems and local livelihoods.
Mr. Mark Andrew Challam, in his special remarks said, “Indigenous food is not only about our physical nourishment; it represents our traditions and cultural roots. Through the wisdom passed down by our elders, we continue to learn and preserve our traditional food practices. I extend my sincere thanks to NESFAS and all the villages and communities involved. Traditional food spaces remain limited and we must promote and expand them, as indigenous food, like tourism, has the power to uplift livelihoods and strengthen communities.”
He further added, “This initiative serves as an encouragement for present and future generations to value our precious traditions. We hope more people will visit Mei Ramew Cafe and support the growth of the local community. May the efforts of NESFAS continue to achieve great success.”
Ms. Alethea K Lyngdoh, Deputy Executive Director of NESFAS, in her vote of thanks expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone present on the occasion including the villages, board members, trainers and all supporters. She acknowledged that the trust and wholehearted cooperation extended by the communities, who opened their doors and supported the initiative, truly made the programme a success.
Participants also visited the thematic stalls including highlighting the diverse initiatives of NESFAS and its partner communities. The event also featured a vibrant performance by Kenet Lyngdoh through Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP), adding a cultural dimension to the celebration.
The programme concluded with an indigenous feast prepared by the Mawstep, Nongwah and Mawpynthymmai Primary Agroecology Cooperative Societies, reaffirming a shared commitment to strengthening community-led efforts that promote sustainable livelihoods, indigenous food systems and environmental stewardship across the region.
