Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh’s Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Gabriel D. Wangsu has urged the central government to revise its funding allocation criteria for the state, emphasizing the need to consider Arunachal’s vast land resources and the socio-economic challenges of its farmers.
Participating in a virtual discussion chaired by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Wangsu argued that population-based fund distribution metrics disadvantage the state and its agricultural development potential.
Highlighting the state’s unique challenges, Wangsu proposed reforms to support sustainable agricultural practices and streamline project funding. He advocated for shifting from the current four-installment fund disbursement model under Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) to a single-installment approach, ensuring timely execution of projects in the state’s difficult terrain.
Addressing the traditional practice of shifting cultivation, Wangsu called for support to transition toward sustainable alternatives like terrace farming, along with capacity building and extension services. He also recommended reducing farmers’ contributions under the PMKSY (Per Drop More Crop) scheme from 45% to 15% to benefit small and marginal farmers.
The minister stressed the strategic importance of Arunachal Pradesh’s border areas with China and requested separate funding under the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) for comprehensive agricultural development in these remote regions. He also urged the Centre to address human-animal conflicts with integrated policies that promote coexistence through land-use planning, agricultural strategies, and wildlife conservation.
Wangsu further underscored the need for enhanced financial support for the horticulture sector, citing its economic and ecological importance to Arunachal Pradesh. “The growth of horticulture is not just an economic necessity but an ecological imperative for our state,” he noted.
The conference, attended by agriculture and horticulture ministers from across India, served as a platform to discuss agricultural reforms and set priorities for the upcoming budget session.
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