Western Ri Bhoi, Meghalaya — 14th April 2025
In a proactive step towards sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, the School of Livelihood and Rural Development (SLRD) organized a One-Day Workshop on Permaculture at the Western Ri Bhoi Farmers Producer Cooperative Society Ltd. on April 14th, 2025. The event brought together 32 enthusiastic farmers, local representatives, and subject experts to explore the transformative power of permaculture — a regenerative design system rooted in working with nature rather than against it.
Purpose and Vision
The workshop aimed to introduce farmers to the foundational ethics, principles, and practices of permaculture. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, practical demonstrations, and meaningful dialogue focused on developing self-sustaining ecosystems for food production, water management, and community living.
Key Highlights of the Workshop
- Understanding the ethics and principles of permaculture
- Learning to design systems that align with natural patterns, soil health, and water cycles
- Exploring hands-on techniques such as composting, food forests, natural building, and companion planting
Technical Sessions
The first session, led by Mr. David Siangsha, ATM at the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), covered a wide range of topics — from the philosophy behind permaculture to the practical challenges faced in conventional farming. He emphasized soil health, water conservation during dry spells, and the use of renewable resources, advocating for mixed cropping and sustainable agricultural practices.
Following a lunch break, Session 2 featured an interactive discussion with Mr. Kitboklang Rangad, who encouraged open dialogue with the farmers. Attendees voiced concerns and shared real-world problems, receiving thoughtful, experience-based advice on integrating permaculture practices into their existing agricultural systems.
The session concluded with a group photograph, symbolizing the unity and commitment of the participants to apply their newfound knowledge in the field.
Objectives of the Workshop
The program was designed around key goals that align with the global permaculture movement:
- Create Sustainable Ecosystems
- Promote Environmental Care and Biodiversity
- Enhance Food Security and Self-Reliance
- Support Community Well-Being and Equity
- Use Resources Wisely and Minimize Waste
- Restore Degraded Land and Improve Soil Fertility
Participant Engagement
The workshop drew 32 farmers from across the region, representing diverse backgrounds and experiences. Their active participation and enthusiasm demonstrated a shared commitment to change and a readiness to embrace innovative, sustainable practices.
Key Achievements of Permaculture (Global Insights Shared During the Workshop)
- Successful Land Regeneration Projects in regions like Australia, Africa, and India
- Community-based Organic Food Systems replacing dependence on industrial agriculture
- Implementation of Eco-friendly Living Models, including water harvesting and renewable energy
- Promotion of Community Resilience, Skill-building, and Education
- Growing Recognition in Climate Action and Conservation Efforts
Conclusion
The workshop concluded on a hopeful and empowering note. Participants left with a deeper understanding of permaculture as more than just an agricultural method — but as a way of life, embracing harmony with the natural world. As the principles of permaculture begin to take root in the minds and fields of these farmers, the ripple effect promises to foster a more resilient, self-reliant, and sustainable rural community.
SLRD believes that with continued support, training, and community collaboration, these grassroots efforts will contribute significantly to local food security, environmental health, and social equity.
Watch this video to catch glimpses of our engaging permaculture workshop, enriched with heartfelt testimonials from attendees.
“Firstly I would like to thank the School of Livelihood Rural Development and also to senior executive of SLRD (E.Warjri) for given us this opportunity to share and co-learn during this workshop cum training program I would also like to thank western Ribhoi FPO’s for the active involvement in the workshop the group showed genuine curiosity and are eager to learn about permaculture and other topics related to agriculture,one thing I like the most about this program is the active involvement of the group and also the question they raised were thoughtful and often sparked deeper discussion and that exactly what agriculture and permaculture thrives on. Lastly I would like to thank the organiser for their logistics support regarding the venue,time management which allowed for smooth flow of session this shows that the organizers are serious and thoughtful for creating a good learning atmosphere.“
Kitboklang Rangad
Block Technology Manager (BTM)
Agricultural Technology management Agency (ATMA)
“The training program on ‘Permaculture Farming’ organized by School of Livelihood and Rural Development is an important initiative taken by the organization to make the farmers aware about the over exploitation of our natural resources and how to revive nature’s resources and use them sustainably by practicing Permaculture farming. The farmers were very interactive and shared about the non-conventional farming practices they usually practiced and sharing of farming knowledges and ideas from both the farmers as well as the organizing team made the program a successful one.”
David Siangshai
Assistant Technology Manager (ATM)
Agricultural Technology management Agency (ATMA)