Aalo, Jan 22: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Wednesday called for expanding pineapple farming as a path toward sustainable development.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Arunachal Pineapple Festival at Higi Bagra in West Siang district, Mein emphasized the importance of organic farming.
He discouraged the use of chemicals in pineapple cultivation and advised farmers to adopt eco-friendly practices.
The deputy chief minister also urged residents to refrain from hunting and fishing, according to an official communiqué.
During the event, Mein felicitated progressive farmers from the Bagra area and encouraged them to explore contract farming as a means to achieve self-sustainable development.
He further assured the festival committee of support for securing Geographical Indication (GI) registration for the region's pineapple and related products.
The three-day festival, set to conclude on January 24, highlights the economic potential of pineapples.
State Education Minister P D Sona, in his address, referred to pineapples as the "engine" driving the livelihoods of local farmers. He urged villagers to expand farming activities across the district.
MLAs Nyabi Jini Dirchi (Basar) and Topin Ete (Aalo West) also addressed the gathering.
Earlier, Shi Yomi Deputy Commissioner Liyi Bagra explained the festival's objectives during his welcome address.
He noted the export of pineapples from the region to Southeast Asian markets and farmers' efforts to cultivate new varieties in response to demand.
The festival features a showcase of pineapple-based products, local tribal cuisines, cultural activities, and sports.