Dragon fruit cultivation is emerging as a promising source of income in Arunachal Pradesh, with progressive farmers demonstrating the potential of high-value horticulture to create sustainable rural livelihoods.
In Likabali, the headquarters of Lower Siang district, farmer Dajum Kena, wife of former minister late Jomde Kena, has established a successful dragon fruit plantation that has attracted attention from across the state.
Kena began the plantation in November 2024 and started harvesting the crop within a year. Her farm has since drawn visitors from different parts of Arunachal Pradesh, showcasing how innovative agricultural practices can develop into viable entrepreneurial ventures.
Speaking to DD News Arunachal, Kena said she had not faced significant difficulties in marketing the produce, with customers often booking the dragon fruit in advance. She also encouraged young people to explore agriculture and allied sectors rather than relying exclusively on conventional government employment.
Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein welcomed Kena’s initiative and described her as an “agripreneur”, saying her success demonstrated the potential of agriculture and horticulture to provide new opportunities in the state.
Mein said the example set by Kena could encourage more young people to pursue agricultural entrepreneurship. He also said the state government remained committed to supporting farmers through better infrastructure, technical assistance, market linkages and value addition.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the government’s objective was to promote high-value crops such as dragon fruit as sustainable sources of income for rural communities.
The growing success of dragon fruit cultivation in Likabali comes as Arunachal Pradesh seeks to diversify its agricultural economy and encourage commercially viable horticultural activities. With relatively low investment requirements, higher returns and growing market demand, the crop is emerging as an alternative income opportunity for farmers in the state.
