Itanagar, May 22: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on May 21 described the launch of Mission Arunachal Kiwi: The USP of Arunachal Pradesh as a significant step towards strengthening the state’s agricultural economy and creating a globally competitive organic kiwi ecosystem.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the initiative is designed to reinforce the entire kiwi value chain, covering cultivation, post-harvest management, branding, exports and agri-tourism, while generating wider economic opportunities for farmers across the state.
In a post on X, Mein said the mission had been introduced under the leadership of Narendra Modi and with the guidance of Jyotiraditya Scindia.
He pointed out that Arunachal Pradesh currently contributes more than half of India’s kiwi production and stated that the convergence-based initiative would help farmers benefit from stronger infrastructure, improved market access and better returns for their produce.
Mein also expressed confidence that “Arunachal Organic Kiwi” could evolve into an internationally recognised brand associated with quality, sustainability and the strength of local farming communities.
The mission was formally launched in New Delhi by Scindia during a programme organised by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh government and other stakeholders.
Officials said the programme aims to establish Arunachal Pradesh as India’s leading centre for organic kiwi production by building a structured framework for processing, branding and export promotion.
The initiative will focus on scientific farming practices, cold storage infrastructure, value addition, improved logistics and direct market connectivity for growers. Authorities also expect the programme to support agri-tourism and encourage private investment in the horticulture sector.
Arunachal Pradesh has emerged as the country’s largest producer of kiwi over recent years, with major cultivation concentrated in districts including Lower Subansiri, West Kameng, Shi Yomi, Tawang and Dibang Valley.
