The Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC), Mokokchung, has been revived with the induction of fresh members and has already set its sights on exporting 5 tonnes of Longkhum tomatoes as part of efforts to strengthen market access for farmers in the district.
The revival of APMC Mokokchung was formally announced during a meeting held at the APMC Complex on June 9, chaired by its Chairman, I Panger Longkumer.
Addressing the gathering, Longkumer said the revival marks a renewed push to harness the potential of agri and allied products in Mokokchung and create better marketing opportunities for farmers. He credited Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, for playing a key role in the process by constituting a three-member committee to reactivate agricultural produce marketing initiatives in the district.
Longkumer expressed confidence that the induction of educated young members, including unemployed youths, would bring fresh energy and ideas to the committee.
Recalling the committee’s past performance, he said APMC Mokokchung had witnessed its peak years in agricultural production and marketing until 2012. However, a decline in farmers’ participation in agricultural activities from 2013 onwards adversely affected production and the committee’s operations.
“As a facilitator for farmers, APMC Mokokchung faced acute shortages of resources and struggled to export products due to reduced farmer participation,” Longkumer said.
Despite the challenges, he said the committee is optimistic about the future and is prepared to work closely with the district administration and Agri & Allied departments to improve farmers’ livelihoods and economic sustainability.
Vice Chairman L Yanger Lemtur outlined plans under the revamped committee, announcing that APMC is preparing to export 5 tonnes of Longkhum tomatoes, with firm correspondences already established for the initiative.
He said the committee also plans to facilitate the marketing of locally produced chillies, bananas, pineapples and other seasonal crops throughout the year.
According to Yanger, surveys are currently being conducted to formulate farmer-friendly policies, including buy-back arrangements, contract farming and large-scale production plans. The committee is also exploring new marketing channels to improve market linkages for local producers.
Appealing to farmers across the district, Yanger encouraged them to approach APMC Mokokchung for assistance in marketing their produce.
“Our doors are always open to facilitate farmers and link them with various marketing agencies,” he said.
The APMC Mokokchung complex is equipped with facilities including an administrative office, stockyards, auction platforms, cold storage units, marketing sheds, compost pits, machinery stores and weighbridges.