Arunachal, ITBP sign MoU to boost dairy cooperatives

The Arunachal Pradesh Government’s Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development (AHV&DD) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) to strengthen the dairy cooperative sector. The event also saw the flag-off of packaged milk supplies at the Civil Secretariat in Itanagar.

AHV&DD Minister Gabriel D Wangsu attended the MoU signing and flag-off ceremony as chief guest. Senior officials from the State Government and ITBP, including AHV&DD Secretary YVVJ Rajasekhar, Commissioner (Home) Nyali Ette, Secretary (Civil Supplies) Mige Kamki, AHV&DD Director Dr D Longri and ITBP DIG (North East Frontier) Abu Sufian, were also present.

Addressing the gathering, Wangsu underscored the importance of developing the dairy sector as a means of enhancing farmers’ income, generating rural employment and strengthening the State’s economic self-reliance. He highlighted that institutional partnerships such as this provide an important opportunity to connect local producers with assured markets, encourage dairy entrepreneurship and make dairy farming a more viable and remunerative livelihood. He emphasised the relevance of the enduring motto, “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” highlighting the vital role of both the armed forces and farmers in safeguarding the nation and strengthening its economy.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajasekhar, Secretary, AHV&DD, outlined the goals of the MoU and the Department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the dairy value chain, covering milk production, collection, processing, packaging and marketing through a brief presentation.

The Department of AHV&DD emphasised that sustained attention would be given to strengthening the milk supply chain, maintaining prescribed quality and food safety standards, and ensuring reliable and timely delivery. Abu Sufian, IPS, DIG (North East Frontier), ITBP, has also emphasised on the collaboration with ITBP represents a practical step towards linking local dairy production with institutional demand while facilitating the regular supply of quality packaged milk to ITBP personnel.