Itanagar, August 4: A significant step toward sustainable rural development was marked today with the successful organization of a Horticulture Awareness cum Input Distribution Programme under the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) at Duitongkhar Circle, Tawang. The initiative, implemented as part of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) — a centrally sponsored scheme — aimed to promote organic horticulture practices and equip local farmers with essential inputs to boost productivity and income.
The event was graced by Tsetan Droma, Circle Officer, Duitongkhar, as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, she emphasized the potential of horticulture as a sustainable and perennial livelihood source and encouraged farmers to adopt crop varieties suited to the local agro-climatic conditions. She advocated for group farming to ensure collective growth, better access to markets, and enhanced support from government schemes. Circle Officer also urged farmers to fully utilize the benefits of the Atma Nirbhar Bagwani Yojana (ANBY), a state-sponsored program dedicated to self-reliant horticulture development.
Safior Rahman, District Horticulture Officer, Tawang, spoke about the significance of organic farming and provided detailed demonstrations on the application of various organic inputs such as liquid organic manure, organic pesticides, fungicides, bactericides, virucides, and organic granular manure. He outlined the health, environmental, and economic advantages of transitioning to organic cultivation and encouraged farmers to leverage the benefits available under ongoing horticultural schemes.
Adding to the collaborative spirit of the event, Himmat Singh, Assistant Commandant, ITBP, assured farmers of support in marketing surplus produce through the Mission Arun Himveer initiative. He also advised the attendees to implement the inputs provided effectively for optimal results.
Earlier in the programme, Koncho Gyatso, Sub-Divisional Horticulture Officer (SDHO), gave an overview of various departmental schemes including the Vibrant Village Programme, aiming to equip farmers with the knowledge and resources needed for horticultural advancement.
A major highlight of the event was the distribution of horticulture input kits to 48 farm families under the VVP. Each kit contained:
• 12 varieties of hybrid vegetable seeds
• Liquid organic manure kits
• Organic pesticides and fungicides
• Bactericides and virucides
• Organic granular manure
• Sprayers
These kits were ceremoniously handed over by the Chief Guest, DHO, and ITBP officials, symbolizing the government’s dedication to sustainable agriculture and farmer empowerment.
The event witnessed participation from Gaon Buras, PRI members, ITBP personnel, horticulture officials, and other stakeholders — all committed to advancing rural livelihoods and organic horticulture.
This initiative under the Vibrant Village Programme stands as a testament to the government’s continuous efforts to promote eco-friendly practices, enhance rural incomes, and empower farmers for a resilient and prosperous future.
