Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday called on newly inducted officers of the Meghalaya Agriculture Service (MAS) to serve with purpose and passion, placing farmers at the heart of their work.
He was addressing the valedictory function of the Induction Training Programme for the 2025 batch of MAS-III officers at the Integrated Agricultural Training Centre (IATC), Upper Shillong.
Agriculture Minister Timothy D Shira and Chief Secretary Dr Shakil P Ahammed were also present at the event, alongside senior officials from the Agriculture Department and allied sectors.
Congratulating the new officers, Sangma commended the IATC for conducting a holistic training programme to prepare recruits for field challenges.
He emphasised that effective governance lies in translating ideas into action and ensuring synergy between departments and grassroots officers.
“Many have a vision of what needs to be done, but the real challenge is converting thought into action. Departments that refine their systems and work as a team succeed in turning visions into reality,” the chief minister said.
Highlighting the government’s shift from a scheme-based to a stakeholder-driven approach, Sangma reminded the officers of their role as vital links between the government and the farming community.
“Always remember your purpose — to make a difference in the lives of farmers. That should be your driving force,” he said.
He also spoke about the state’s various agricultural missions, noting that such initiatives help define purpose, accountability, and measurable outcomes within a time-bound framework.
Urging the officers not to be discouraged by challenges, he added, “Serve with passion and commitment to bring positive change to our farmers’ lives.”
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Agriculture Minister Timothy D Shira, in his address, said nearly 70 percent of Meghalaya’s population depends on agriculture, and improving farmers’ economic condition rests on the shoulders of the new officers.
“You will be working directly with farmers. Engage with them with empathy, patience, and understanding,” he advised.
The induction programme, organised by the Department of Agriculture, Meghalaya, comprised three modules designed to build technical expertise, administrative competence, and managerial skills.
The training combined classroom learning, field visits, interactive sessions, and exposure to national agricultural institutions to provide both theoretical insights and hands-on experience.
The programme also aimed to familiarise officers with agricultural policies, enhance leadership qualities, promote teamwork, and instil professional ethics as they prepare to implement the state’s vision for sustainable agricultural growth.
