Itanagar, Jan 23: Arunachal Pradesh’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Nyato Dukam, has urged local farmers to embrace spice farming as a sustainable and lucrative income source. Speaking at a buyer-seller meet for spices at DK Convention Hall on Thursday, Dukam emphasized the need for long-term commitment to farming practices, instead of relying solely on government subsidies.
The minister highlighted the importance of platforms like the buyer-seller meet, which help farmers understand market trends, establish networks, and adopt value-added techniques in farming. “This event provides an excellent opportunity to forge long-term partnerships that benefit all parties involved,” Dukam said.
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He reassured farmers of continued support from the Spice Board and the state government, offering subsidies, training, and market linkages to strengthen the spice farming sector. Dukam also advocated for a “hand-holding” approach to provide ongoing guidance and improve market access for farmers.
Regional Spice Board Deputy Director DM Barman, in his address, highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s significant role in spice cultivation, noting that the state ranks second in the country in large cardamom production, after Sikkim. Barman also spoke about the various initiatives by the Centre and the Spice Board to support the spice farming community in the region.
The event was attended by over 80 farmers from across the state and 10 buyers from various parts of India. Organized by the Spice Board, Itanagar, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the meet provided a key platform for local farmers to connect with buyers, fostering greater market access and boosting economic opportunities for Arunachal’s spice farmers.
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