Itanagar, May 26: Arunachal Pradesh is set to receive major technical and infrastructure support for the development of its dairy sector following high-level discussions between the State Government and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) recently.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Regional Meeting of the Animal Husbandry & Fisheries Department in Aizawl, Mizoram and was led by Minister of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary & Dairy Development, and Fisheries, Gabriel D Wangsu, from the Arunachal Pradesh side and Dr Meenesh C Shah from NDDB.
Officials on Tuesday said that the meeting focused on key challenges facing the dairy sector in Arunachal Pradesh and explored collaborative interventions in areas such as infrastructure development, breeding improvement, fodder planning, cooperative strengthening and dairy models suited to the hill ecosystem of the State.
One of the major concerns discussed was the high transportation cost involved in bringing High Genetic Merit (HGM) cattle from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. NDDB assured that the issue would be taken up with Railway authorities to facilitate more economical transportation arrangements.
The issue of low conception success rates associated with sex-sorted semen was also discussed. NDDB agreed to provide substantial doses of sex-sorted semen free of cost from its Sabarmati Artificial Insemination Centre along with technical support.
To improve cooperative coverage in the dairy sector, NDDB informed that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being prepared for the establishment of two new dairy plants, refurbishment of two existing plants, creation of Dairy Cooperative Societies, formation of Milk Unions and installation of Bulk Milk Coolers at strategic locations. The proposed initiatives are aimed at helping Arunachal Pradesh secure financial support under the White Revolution 2.0 programme.
The meeting also discussed plans for setting up a 200-capacity milch cow rearing centre in West Kameng district using land belonging to the Fisheries Department for fresh milk supply to the Tawang sector. A dedicated fodder farm is also proposed on nearby departmental land under the Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary & Dairy Development.
In the area of fodder development, NDDB agreed to assist in preparing a comprehensive State Fodder Plan in collaboration with the Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute.
The NDDB also expressed willingness to support establishment of small-scale biogas plants under the ANAND model to encourage sustainable dairy practices in the State.
According to the discussions, DPRs have already been prepared for refurbishment of dairy plants at Pasighat and Karsingsa with estimated project costs of Rs 11 crore and Rs 13.50 crore respectively. Proposals for two new dairy plants at Namsai and Warjong, estimated at Rs 17.79 crore and Rs 25.57 crore respectively, have also been prepared to strengthen milk supply chains, including supply to Army establishments.
Recognising the unique terrain and climatic conditions of Tawang and West Kameng districts, NDDB proposed adoption of the Ladakh model of dairy development involving smaller livestock holdings with wider farmer participation.
Both sides also agreed to sign a non-binding and non-financial Memorandum of Understanding next month to formalise future cooperation. NDDB Chairman Meenesh C Shah and a technical team are also expected to visit Arunachal Pradesh shortly to assess ground realities and finalise project timelines.
Officials said the meeting marks a significant step towards strengthening dairy-based livelihoods, nutritional security and rural economic development in Arunachal Pradesh.