Guv, union MoS discuss ways to boost agriculture, infrastructure in Arunachal

Itanagar, Apr 5: Union Minister Ram Nath Thakur on Saturday called on governor KT Parnaik at Raj Bhavan here.

During the meeting, the Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare discussed advancing agricultural development in the state and addressing key issues related to the implementation and augmentation of central agricultural schemes in the state, a Raj Bhavan communiqué said.

Parnaik emphasised the importance of introducing and promoting modern and innovative technologies in the agricultural sector to enhance productivity and improve the socio-economic conditions of farmers in Arunachal Pradesh, a state predominantly reliant on agriculture.

He also stressed on the urgent need to revive defunct government farms and enhance agricultural infrastructure to meet the growing demand for strengthening agriculture and related sectors, particularly horticulture and animal husbandry.

A well-supported infrastructure will significantly contribute to the sustainable development of rural communities and improve livelihoods, he said.

Seeking stronger market linkages for farmers, the governor underlined the importance of implementing the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for perishable agricultural and horticultural produce, as well as the Integrated Scheme for Agricultural Marketing (ISAM) to develop scientific storage infrastructure.

“These initiatives would be pivotal in reducing post-harvest losses and ensure fair prices for farmers,” he said.

The governor also briefed Thakur on the state’s initiative ‘Arun Himveer’, which supplies locally grown vegetables and produce to the armed forces stationed in Arunachal Pradesh.

To strengthen this effort, he requested the Centre’s support in establishing a robust cold-chain infrastructure, including cold storage facilities and refrigerated transport vehicles, to preserve perishable items and ensure timely delivery.

Appreciating the initiatives taken by the state, Thakur assured the governor of Centre’s support in enhancing agricultural productivity and farmer welfare in the state.