Guwahati, Nov 30: In a move toward bolstering rural livelihoods and fortifying border relations, the Mission Arun Himveer has been launched with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB) and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), North East Frontier.
The initiative marks a significant leap in market linkage for agricultural and horticultural produce from the remotest corners of Arunachal Pradesh.
Under this partnership, ITBP will procure fruits, vegetables, meat, and poultry directly from local farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and cooperatives. This is a follow-up to the state’s first collaboration with the Indian Army in August 2022, which saw over 400 tons of produce worth ₹72 lakh supplied by indigenous farmers.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed confidence that this initiative would rejuvenate interest in farming, especially in areas where market access has been historically limited.
“We have the land and climate for diverse agricultural produce. Mission Arun Himveer will inspire reverse migration, bringing people back to their roots and revitalizing our villages,” he stated.
The MoU, signed by APAMB CEO Okit Palling and ITBP IG Dr. Akun Sabharwal, signifies more than just commerce and is bridge fostering camaraderie between the people of Arunachal.
Farmers from Jang, Ziro, Aalo, Tuting, and Tezu symbolically exchanged their produce with ITBP personnel, marking the commencement of this new era.
“This initiative will not only double farmers’ income but also build a deeper connection between border communities and the ITBP,” Khandu remarked, adding that the program aligns with the Vibrant Village Programme aimed at revitalizing border districts.
