Union Minister assures boost for Arunachal’s farming sector

Union Minister of State Prof S P Singh Baghel assured Arunachal Pradesh of the Centre’s full support in developing the animal husbandry and fisheries sectors, according to an official statement released Wednesday. During a review meeting with State Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Minister Gabriel D Wangsu, Baghel pledged consideration of indigenous species like Mithun and Yak for inclusion under the National Livestock Mission’s Entrepreneurship Development Program.

Baghel emphasized swift service delivery and directed officials to expedite state-submitted proposals. He also addressed the need for improved banking cooperation to ensure farmers can access the benefits of government programs without delay. Highlighting key initiatives, Baghel proposed measures to improve livestock health services, expand training programs in livestock management, and encourage goat and sheep husbandry. These steps, he said, will boost animal health services and enhance quality meat production in Arunachal Pradesh.

Minister Wangsu raised concerns over challenges in accessing funds for centrally sponsored schemes, citing delays in subsidy and loan disbursements that impact state goals to double farmer incomes by 2025. He proposed disbursing funds in two instalments, rather than four, to improve program efficiency.

By Sonakshi Sarkar