Itanagar, Jan 13: Chief Minister Pema Khandu has on Monday flagged off Arunachal Pradesh’s first-ever commercial consignment of cut flowers to Guwahati, Assam, marking a major milestone in the state’s horticulture and agri-based economy.
The inaugural shipment comprised 2,000 stems of Asiatic Lilium sourced from farmers in Lower Subansiri district and generated approximately Rs 1 lakh in revenue, opening new income avenues for local cultivators.
The initiative is being implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), through which the Department of Horticulture is promoting scientific cultivation of high-quality cut and loose flowers suited to Arunachal Pradesh’s diverse agro-climatic conditions. Officials said the State’s favourable climate and terrain offer strong potential for floriculture as a sustainable and high-value agricultural activity.
Speaking on the occasion, Khandu said the dispatch heralds a new era of commercial floriculture in Arunachal Pradesh, with flowers from the State expected to reach major markets across the country in the coming days.
He emphasised that the initiative would enhance farmers’ income, encourage crop diversification, and strengthen market linkages.
The government plans to expand floriculture clusters, provide technical support, and improve logistics to ensure consistent supply to national markets. The move is expected to promote rural livelihoods, create employment opportunities, and contribute to inclusive growth while positioning Arunachal Pradesh as an emerging hub for high-quality floriculture in India.
Upper Subansiri Orange
moves closer to GI tag
Meanwhile, CM Khandu has termed it a proud moment for Arunachal Pradesh as the Geographical Indication (GI) application for Orange of Upper Subansiri has been formally filed with the GI Registry, Chennai, by a representative body of local Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).
Khandu said the initiative marks a significant step towards empowering farmers, protecting the unique identity of the region’s produce and strengthening the rural economy. He noted that GI recognition would enhance market value, ensure authenticity, and open new opportunities for national and global branding of Arunachal’s agricultural products.
The CM added that the move reflects the government’s commitment to promoting indigenous crops, encouraging farmer-led institutions, and creating sustainable livelihood avenues for rural communities while highlighting the State’s rich agro-biodiversity.