Itanagar, Jul 16: In a move to strengthen the implementation of agriculture development programmes and improve support for farmers, the Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NABARD Consultancy Services Private Limited (NABCONS) in Itanagar.
Under the agreement, NABCONS will function as the Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) for APAMB, assisting in the monitoring and implementation of various Central Sector Schemes (CSS), state schemes and other agriculture-related projects across Arunachal Pradesh.
The MoU was signed between NABARD General Manager SV Ranga Rao and APAMB Chief Executive Officer Okit Palling in the presence of Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Gabriel D Wangsu, Agriculture Secretary Samuel Changkija, Director of Agriculture Toggul Perme Pertin and Director of Horticulture Tobom Bam.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Wangsu underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to accelerate the growth of the agriculture and horticulture sectors. He said Arunachal Pradesh has immense potential in both sectors, but sustainable development requires strategies tailored to the state's unique geography and local conditions.
The Minister noted that despite producing high-quality agricultural and horticultural commodities, many farmers struggle to access suitable markets and often do not receive remunerative prices for their produce. He added that the state government is strengthening digital agriculture systems to improve planning, market access and service delivery.
Highlighting the state's strengths, Wangsu said improving road connectivity, a large farming community and diverse agro-climatic conditions—from tropical to temperate regions—offer significant opportunities for agricultural diversification.
Describing NABCONS as a trusted and experienced institution, he expressed confidence that its technical expertise would enhance project implementation and hoped the partnership would pave the way for more collaborative initiatives in the future.
The Minister further said the Agriculture and Horticulture Departments have made significant progress in recent years and are implementing several development projects, with the state government according high priority to the growth of both sectors.
Agriculture Secretary Samuel Changkija said NABCONS' technical expertise would add value to the state's agricultural development initiatives. He called for close coordination between the two organisations to effectively address challenges and ensure the successful implementation of projects.