ITANAGAR, Oct 26: In a major milestone in the State’s dairy development initiatives, the Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary & Dairy Development (AHV&DD), GoAP today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), besides flagging off packaged milk supplies at the Civil Secretariat here.
The initiative aims to establish a structured institutional market for locally produced milk, strengthen market linkages for dairy farmers and promote the growth of an organised and sustainable dairy sector in the State.
The MoU signing and flag-off ceremony was graced by Gabriel D Wangsu, Minister for AHV&DD, as chief guest. The programme was also attended by YVVJ Rajasekhar, Secretary AHV&DD, Director AHV&DD, senior State government officers and senior ITBP representatives, including Abu Sufian, DIG (Frontier), Itanagar, along with other officers.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister underscored the importance of developing the dairy sector as a means of enhancing farmers’ income, generating rural employment and strengthening the State’s economic self-reliance. He highlighted that institutional partnerships such as this provide an important opportunity to connect local producers with assured markets, encourage dairy entrepreneurship and make dairy farming a more viable and remunerative livelihood.
He emphasised the relevance of the enduring motto, ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’, highlighting the vital role of both the paramilitary forces and farmers in safeguarding the nation and strengthening its economy.
Secy AHV&DD outlined the objectives of the MoU and the Department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the dairy value chain, covering milk production, collection, processing, packaging and marketing through a brief presentation. He also emphasised on the collaboration with ITBP represents a practical step towards linking local dairy production with institutional demand while facilitating the regular supply of quality packaged milk to ITBP personnel.
The initiative is expected to create greater market confidence among dairy farmers, encourage increased participation in organised dairy farming and support the gradual expansion of dairy production and related economic activities in the State. It also reflects the shared commitment of the State Government and ITBP to supporting local livelihoods and strengthening the regional economy through institutional cooperation.
The Department of AHV&DD emphasised that sustained attention would be given to strengthening the milk supply chain, maintaining prescribed quality and food safety standards, and ensuring reliable and timely delivery. The initiative is consistent with the broader vision of promoting self-reliance, rural entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihood opportunities in the State.