Apple is one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world. Due to the favourable agro-climatic conditions of the North Eastern Region, low chilling Apple varieties have great potential. In order to tap the opportunity, the North Eastern Region Community Resource Management Society (NERCRMS), Shillong, has taken the initiative to introduce and promote apple in the region. The initiative was launched in the year 2018 with the financial support from the North Eastern Council (NEC), Ministry of DoNER, Govt. of India.
The initiative received an overwhelming response from the farming community and as well as from the various government and non-government agencies. Based on the success, the North Eastern Council (NEC), Ministry of DoNER, Govt. of India continued their support and launched the second phase of the project Promotion of Low Chilling Apple Plantation in NER of India in the year 2020-21.
The NERCRMS, in collaboration with the Ziro Valley Charity Mission Society (ZVCMS), Arunachal Pradesh, organised a capacity building programme on the Management of Apple Orchard and Distribution of Organic Fertilizer & Bio-Pesticides in the ZVCMS Office in Lempia, Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh.
Accordingly, 23(twenty-three) beneficiaries were identified from various Community Based Organizations (CBOs). They were trained on the scientific use of organic fertiliser and pesticides to enhance the quality of their harvest.
Mr. Hibu Dante, Horticulture Development Officer, Ziro, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, presided over the training programme as the resource person. Mr. Dante applauded the initiative of NEC, MDoNER, GoI in empowering the farming community of Ziro. He stated that the training has been beneficial for the CBO members in developing their skills and competencies required to start micro-enterprises. He also encouraged the organizers to implement more such projects in the near future. At the end of the programme, the beneficiaries also received necessary supplements for their orchards.
Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi ji, North East India is witnessing a new era of peace, progress and prosperity. The Ministry of DoNER, led by the Hon’ble Union Cabinet Minister Shri. G. Kishan Reddy, is making determined efforts to empower Kisaan Shakti of NER. Through such initiatives, the waves of transformation is reaching to the farmers and making them economically self-sustainable.
