ITANAGAR, Mar 28: In recognition of its innovative initiative, the Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB), Govt of Arunachal Pradesh, has been conferred the prestigious SKOCH Silver Award 2026 for 'Mission Arun Himveer' initiative.
The award was presented during the 106th SKOCH Summit – State of Governance held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi.
Launched on November 29, 2024, by the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Mission Arun Himveer is aimed at strengthening farmers’ livelihoods by ensuring assured procurement and timely payments. The initiative guarantees payments to farmers within 24 hours, eliminates middlemen, and is supported by a government-created revolving fund.
Speaking on the occasion, APAMB CEO Okit Palling stated that the programme is transforming the lives of farmers in border areas, including Vibrant Villages, by providing a structured procurement system and a quick, hassle-free payment mechanism without intermediaries.
He further informed that women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from border regions such as Tawang, Anjaw, Mechuka, Tuting, and Anini account for over 90 percent of the suppliers under the programme.
As of January 10, 2026, more than 200 metric tonnes of fresh vegetables have been supplied to the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) under the initiative. This has significantly strengthened livelihoods in border villages while fostering goodwill between farmers and security personnel.
Palling also appreciated the coordinated efforts of officials from the departments of Agriculture, Horticulture, Cooperation, and the State Livelihood Mission in ensuring regular supply of produce to the armed forces.
The award highlights Mission Arun Himveer as a successful model of inclusive growth and efficient governance in the agriculture sector.