Itanagar– In a pathbreaking move, the Arunachal Pradesh Cabinet has formally cleared India’s first exclusive Horticulture Policy with the objective of establishing a national model for sustainable, climate-resilient, and commercially oriented horticulture practices. The landmark decision promises to change the face of the state’s horticulture sector as well as make a major contribution to the nation’s agricultural economy.
The recently sanctioned policy includes a number of important missions aimed at taking advantage of the state’s peculiar climatic factors and high biodiversity. Among the highlights is the Arunachal Kiwi Mission, aimed at making the state a major kiwi fruit producer in India. The move is likely to not only increase local production but also increase the revenue of farmers involved in kiwi farming.
Moreover, the Arunachal Spice Mission also aims to encourage farming of high-value spices like large cardamom, black pepper, and star anise. With these profitable crops as its main focus, the government hopes to grow the economic potential of spice farming and thus help local farmers as well as improve their living.
The policy is also heavily focused on the Medicinal & Aromatic Plants (MAP) Mission, which will promote large-scale production of medicinal plants for the AYUSH industry. This mission is in line with the increasing global demand for herbal products and traditional medicine, making Arunachal Pradesh a critical player in this market.
An important feature of the policy is that it ensures empowerment of women and young people through gender-responsive budgeting and the advancement of hortipreneurship. The emphasis on inclusivity is designed to produce fair opportunities within the horticulture industry, with entrepreneurship for marginalized communities being promoted.
The policy supports climate-resilient and sustainable horticulture through the promotion of integrated farming systems and environmentally friendly practices. This is important in responding to the challenges of climate change while promoting the long-term sustainability of horticultural activities.
In addition, the policy focuses on developing infrastructure and value chains, which involve the enhancement of storage structures, processing plants, and marketing outlets. The end-to-end strategy aims to improve the entire efficiency and profitability of the horticulture industry.
Lastly, the policy acknowledges the significance of research & development (R&D) and innovation to increase productivity. Through investments in research and technology, Arunachal Pradesh seeks to increase horticultural productivity and equip farmers with the most updated agricultural techniques.
Through the approval of this trailblazing policy, Arunachal Pradesh strides significantly toward transforming its horticulture industry, assuring economic progress, sustainability, and better livelihoods for its people.
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