Northeast India Aims for Self-Sufficiency in Dairy and Livestock by 2030

The Union DoNER Ministry has established a High-Level Task Force (HLTF) to develop a strategic plan aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in milk, egg, fish, and meat production in Northeast India by 2030. The plan was announced by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who chairs the HLTF, during the Golden Jubilee of the Arunachal Pradesh State Cooperative Union (APSCU).

The initiative will heavily rely on the cooperative sector to expand production capacities and enhance market integration across the region. The cooperative network in Arunachal Pradesh has grown significantly from its early days during the NEFA era to a robust system of 1,449 societies boasting over 220,000 members. This growth highlights the potential for cooperatives to play a pivotal role in the region's economic development.

Chief Minister Khandu praised the APSCU's 27-district revival tour, which identified critical areas for improvement, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited understanding of cooperative principles, and the absence of cooperative banking services in several districts. He assured that the government would provide comprehensive support to strengthen cooperatives once the model code of conduct is lifted.

Khandu further emphasized the need for a more professional and autonomous APSCU to drive the Atma Nirbhar Arunachal initiative, which aims to reduce the Northeast's dependency on imports from other states. The cooperative framework is expected to be instrumental in enhancing dairy and livestock productivity, thereby contributing significantly to the region's self-reliance goals.

This strategic approach indicates a concerted effort by the regional government to leverage local resources and capabilities, thereby fostering economic independence and sustainability in the Northeast.