Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday sought Centre’s support for a full- fledged Agriculture University in the state.
Khandu conveyed this to Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Sudharshan Bhagat who called on him at his office today, an official communique informed.
Stating that technological support in agriculture and horticulture is crucial to boost farm output, the chief minister requested the Union minister to consider for a full-fledged Agriculture University and a Centre of Excellence for Horticulture in Arunachal. On development of Animal Husbandry in Arunachal, Khandu requested for a Pig Research Centre in Arunachal to support pig rearing.
Similar to a Yak Research Centre set up in West Kameng district, Khandu requested for a National Research Centre for Mithun, informing that the animal has traditional values among the locals.
While reasoning that Arunachal has largest population of mithun in the country, CM said that NRC for mithun will multiply the bovine population while its preservation would also be taken care of.
The chief minister further informed that Arunachal has started its mission to make the state fully organic, which is as per the initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make the states go organic. “Launched this year on April 15, the state government has set the target of three years to achieve the goal,” Khandu added.
Bhagat assured to look into the requests and promised to offer all support for its fulfilment. He asked the state government to submit detail proposals to the Centre for consideration.
He appreciated the peaceful nature of Arunachali people and expressed happiness from his visit.
The meeting was also attended by Home Minister Kumar Waii, Education Minister Honchun Ngandam, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Minister Dr Mohesh Chai and Chief Secretary Shakuntala D Gamlin, the communique added. (PTI)
