Chümoukedima, October 30 (MExN): The District Agriculture Office, Chümoukedima launched a Custom Hiring Centre (CHC) to provide farm machinery on rent to oil palm farmers on October 29. The centre was inaugurated by Chümoukedima Deputy Commissioner, Polan John, (NCS).
District Agriculture Officer, Moainla Pongen highlighted the benefits of the CHC, stating its aims are to increase accessibility, improve productivity, ensure sustainability, and empower oil palm farmers, according to a press release.
Custom Hiring Centres are facilities that provide farm machinery and equipment for rent to farmers, particularly small and marginal ones, to boost agricultural productivity.
The newly launched centre is equipped with various farm machinery like tractors, tillers and other implements which farmers can hire at subsidised rates.
It has been established under the second installment of the National Mission on Edible Oils - Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) scheme for 2023-24.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, DC Commissioner Polan John shared insights on the importance of farm mechanization for the farming community. He stated that the objective of setting up the centre is to improve the economy of the farmers.
The programme was chaired by Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer, Kevin Solo. Altogether, 60 oil palm farmers attended the programme.
