ITANAGAR: In a landmark move poised to revolutionise its agricultural landscape, Arunachal Pradesh today launched its inaugural outbound air cargo service from Donyi Polo Airport.
The initiative, officially flagged off by Civil Aviation Minister Balo Raja, is set to directly connect the state’s farmers with larger markets, drastically reducing the time and wastage associated with transporting perishable produce. Under the theme ‘Empowering Farmers, Connecting Markets’, the new service will prioritise the swift transit of the state’s rich bounty of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. “This initiative will open new horizons for our hardworking farmers,” Minister Raja shared, highlighting the long-awaited solution to post-harvest losses and logistical hurdles.
Officials say the dedicated facility will enable cultivators, especially those in remote areas, to bypass the conventional long-distance road network, securing better prices for their goods while ensuring they reach consumers fresh. The air cargo launch comes as a significant boost to the region’s economy, leveraging Donyi Polo Airport’s growing infrastructure. The airport, a greenfield project inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2022, has witnessed a steady rise in air traffic since its inception.
Additionally, Minister Raja reviewed the state-of-the-art terminal building, which will be formally inaugurated on September 2. Built to accommodate over 400 passengers at a time, the new terminal is equipped with modern amenities, symbolising the state’s expanding connectivity and aspirations. These infrastructure upgrades are part of the Centre’s UDAN scheme, focused on enhancing air travel and economic growth across the Northeast.
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