Nagpur, Nov 26: State’s Agriculture Minister Gabriel D. Wangsu emphasized the importance of understanding the fundamental aspects of agriculture, particularly soil health, to formulate effective policies for the state’s agriculture and allied sectors.
“Arunachal Pradesh spans 84,000 square kilometers, and as a leader, it is my duty to understand the soil that sustains our plans and initiatives. Farming needs to become a preferred sector in Arunachal Pradesh, and for that, we seek your suggestions and cooperation,” he remarked while addressing officials at the National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS&LUP) under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in Nagpur on Monday.
The minister praised the institute’s contributions to soil science and expressed hope for stronger collaboration in the future. “Your expertise and data are invaluable for us. I came here today not only as a minister but also as a farmer eager to learn and bring change to my state.” he added.
The NBSS&LUP team, led by its Director, presented a detailed overview of the institute’s work through a PowerPoint presentation. They shared findings from their ongoing consultancy projects, including studies on soil properties across different regions of Arunachal Pradesh. These studies highlighted the state’s soil potential, the suitability of specific crops for various soil types, and the urgent need to arrest erosion in vulnerable areas.  
The Director also underscored the physical challenges of surveying every part of India but noted that many states have successfully adopted the institute’s innovative practices. She commended Minister Wangsu for being the first high-ranking official from Arunachal Pradesh to visit the institute.
The visit included extensive discussions between the Arunachal delegation and NBSS&LUP scientists, focusing on the application of advanced soil management techniques and strategies to enhance agricultural productivity in Arunachal Pradesh. 
Later in the day the minister, Wangsu also visited the ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute (CCRI) in Nagpur, where the institution proposed a joint venture with Arunachal Pradesh to address challenges in citrus cultivation. 
Wangsu highlighted the state’s significant potential in citrus farming and expressed concern over the devastating impact of citrus diseases on farmers. "Many of our farmers have become hopeless due to crop failures. The government has taken steps to address these issues, but we need a roadmap for containment and recovery through collaborative efforts with institutes like CCRI," he said.
The CCRI scientists shared insights into disease management, market demands, and best practices adopted by other states. Minister Wangsu acknowledged the institute's value in supporting the growth of Arunachal Pradesh’s citrus industry and called for stronger ties to improve farmers’ livelihoods. "This institute is precious to me, and I am committed to expanding our collaboration. Let us strive together to make a meaningful impact not just for our state but for the entire nation," he appealed.
These visits are part of the minister’s nationwide tour to gather insights into innovative practices and technologies that can be adapted to the unique agricultural landscape of Arunachal Pradesh. (HS)

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
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