Arunachal Pradesh to Introduce Incentive-driven Agriculture and Horticulture Policy

The Arunachal Pradesh government is set to introduce its first agriculture and horticulture policy aimed at encouraging youth participation in farming. The policy, highlighted in the 2024-25 budget, focuses on natural farming, market linkages, and crop exports. A provision of Rs 621 crore has been allocated for this initiative.

The Arunachal Pradesh government will devise its inaugural agriculture and horticulture policy to encourage youth involvement in farming, the assembly was informed on Thursday.

Agriculture, Horticulture, Fisheries, and Dairy Development Minister Gabriel Denwang Wangshu stated that various experts and stakeholders would contribute to making the policy appealing to the state's youth.

The plan, mentioned in the 2024-25 state budget presented by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, aims to enhance natural farming, increase farm gate prices, improve market linkages, and boost crop exports.

An allocation of Rs 621 crore has been earmarked for agriculture and allied sectors in the budget, Wangshu noted.

"Through this policy, we will aim to engage more young farmers, integrating them into the core farming community via a scientific approach," the minister said.

Addressing a query from Congress legislator Kumar Waii, the minister assured the House that the government would support the farming community's interests.

(With inputs from agencies.)