Pasighat, Feb 13: Gabriel D. Wangsu, Minister for Agriculture, Horticulture, etc. inaugurated the Arunachal Pradesh State Level Sahakarita Sammelan, a two-day cooperative conference, organised by the Department of Cooperation, under the theme "Cooperatives Build a Better World” at the College of Horticulture and Forestry, Pasighat, East Siang District today. 
The Sammelan brought together representatives from cooperative societies, farmers’ groups, SHGs and departmental officials on one platform to deliberate on strengthening the cooperative ecosystem in the State. It was an enriching exchange of ideas focused on convergence across agriculture and allied sectors, value addition, market linkages and institutional capacity building.
In his inaugural address, Minister Wangsu, with a clarion call for greater farmer participation and departmental coordination to strengthen the cooperative movement across the state, emphasised the critical role of farmers in accelerating the cooperative movement in Arunachal Pradesh. "We need to be thoroughly professional in our approach. Your cooperation is very important," he told the assembled farmers and stakeholders.
The Minister highlighted a significant awareness gap regarding benefits available through the Department of Cooperation. "People are not much aware of the benefits they get from the department of cooperative," he observed, urging the use of social media as an effective tool for greater public engagement and farmer success.
Wangsu raised concerns about the Public Distribution System (PDS) in the state, stating, "We have to reboot the system." He also highlighted challenges faced by farmers who procure feed, breeds and saplings without proper guidance, resulting in financial losses.
"It's time that departments should roll up their sleeves to help our people achieve their goals for ultimate Viksit Bharat," Wangsu said while appealing the farmers to revive the lost glory of Pasighat's dairy sector.
Stressing the importance of institutional support, Wangsu said that hand holding from the departments is very important and expressed hopes all departments to work together to reap the best for the state. He also called upon all stakeholders to optimize available resources to achieve collective goals.
Ojing Tasing, Guest of Honour and Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperation, and Transport, emphasized the government's commitment to strengthening cooperation through various schemes and initiatives. He urged stakeholders to study and emulate success stories from other states and countries.
Wangsu also inaugurated an exhibition as part of the summit activities. The conference featured panel discussions and presentations showcasing success stories of cooperative societies through PowerPoint presentations. An open discussion session allowed direct interaction between farmers and officials, fostering dialogue on ground-level challenges and solutions.
The event witnessed participation from senior government officials and dignitaries, including Tapi Darang, MLA of Pasighat; Dr. Sonal Swaroop, IAS, Secretary Cooperation cum Registrar of Cooperative Societies; Commissioner Fisheries; Secretaries of Horticulture, Agriculture, and Animal Husbandry & Veterinary departments; Directors of Agriculture, Horticulture, Fisheries, and Animal Husbandry & Veterinary; and the Deputy Commissioner in-charge and Superintendent of Police of East Siang.
Later in the day, Minister Wangsu inspected various infrastructure projects under the Smart City Pasighat initiative, including the Smart Guest House, Riverfront Development, Market Upgradation Phase I & II, and Recreation Centre. He was accompanied during the visit by Dr. Manjuli Komut, CEO, Smart City Pasighat.

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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
Phone: 0360-2212313

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