Itanagar: What started as a modest venture two years ago has blossomed into a remarkable success story in Arunachal Pradesh. The Longrok Self-Help Group (SHG) from Jungmaisung village in Changlang district has not just grown bananas, they have cultivated a future of financial independence and empowerment. Through the state government’s Atma Nirbhar Bagwani Yojana, this all-women’s group has transformed their lives, proving that collective effort and strategic farming can bring about monumental change.
The group’s decision to start a banana plantation under the horticulture scheme was a leap of faith that has paid off handsomely. Today, their thriving farm stands as a testament to their grit and hard work. The income from banana sales has consistently boosted the SHG’s funds, creating a sustainable financial model that ensures their long-term stability. The group’s journey from a small-scale initiative to a rural success model has garnered praise from local officials, who recently visited the farm and were impressed by their achievement. They noted that the group’s story is a prime example of how government schemes, when implemented effectively by the community, can create visible and lasting change.
The Longrok SHG’s accomplishment is a shining example of the farmer welfare initiatives championed by the state’s Agriculture and Horticulture Department, under the leadership of Minister Gabriel D Wangsu. These schemes have been instrumental in uplifting thousands of farmers across Arunachal Pradesh, promoting a blend of traditional wisdom and modern commercial farming practices. Beyond the financial gains, this initiative highlights the transformative power of women-led enterprises. A senior district official remarked, “When women lead, the results are always fruitful and inspiring,” adding that the success of the Longrok SHG is anticipated to inspire many more communities to follow suit and take charge of their own economic destiny.