The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has launched Mission Arun Himveer to enhance market linkages for local agricultural and horticultural producers. In a significant move, the Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), North East Frontier, in the presence of Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
Key Highlights of Mission Arun Himveer
Objectives
- Provide direct market access for local farmers, SHGs, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and cooperatives.
- Foster economic growth in rural and border regions.
- Solve employment challenges by promoting reverse migration to villages.
- Support the Vibrant Village Programme by addressing the demand for agricultural and horticultural products in border areas.
Features of the MoU
- ITBP will purchase fruits, vegetables, meat, and poultry directly from local farmers through APAMB.
- Payments will be processed via a revolving fund of ₹4 crore, reimbursed after reconciliation by ITBP.
- Farmers receive 100% of the funds from this initiative.
Milestones Achieved
- 400 tons of produce worth ₹72 lakhs were supplied to the Indian Army under a similar agreement in August 2022.
- Exchange of agricultural produce has already begun in regions like Tawang, Lower Subansiri, West Siang, Upper Siang, and Lohit.
Economic Impact
- ₹10 crore annual business expected under the Mission.
- Encourages participation in farming, doubling farmers’ income.
- Strengthens women’s contribution to the rural economy, with over 1 lakh women involved in SHGs statewide.
Social and Strategic Benefits
- Strengthens relationships between border residents and ITBP forces.
- Promotes self-reliance and sustainability among farmers.
- Encourages reverse migration by creating rural employment opportunities.
Leadership and Participation
- MoU signed by APAMB CEO Okit Palling and ITBP NE Frontier Inspector General Akun Sabharwal.
- Ceremony attended by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Chief Secretary, and senior officers from agricultural and allied sectors.
- Deputy Commissioners, farmers, SHGs, and cooperatives participated virtually.
Future Goals
- Expand market access for remote villages with limited surplus.
- Integrate border regions into the state’s mainstream economy.
- Encourage innovation and diversification in farming practices.
Summary/Static | Details |
Why in the news? | Arunachal Pradesh launches ‘Mission Himveer’ to boost local economy |
Launch Date | December 1, 2024 |
Key Stakeholders | Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB), ITBP |
Objectives | Boost market linkages, support Vibrant Village Programme, promote rural employment |
Economic Impact | ₹10 crore annual business; 100% payment to farmers; ₹4 crore revolving fund |
Key Milestones | Previous supply of ₹72 lakh produce to Indian Army; Initial exchange in Tawang, Ziro, Aalo, etc. |
Social Benefits | Reverse migration, improved ties with ITBP, women’s empowerment in rural areas |
Implementation Method | Direct procurement by ITBP; APAMB manages payment through revolving fund |
Future Goals | Expand markets, enhance rural economies, and integrate border regions |