Arunachal Pradesh Launches Geothermal Drying Unit to Boost Agriculture
Arunachal Pradesh inaugurates a geothermal drying unit to enhance agricultural productivity and seeks approval for a seismic microzonation project.
Itanagar, November 10 (Daily Kiran) : Arunachal Pradesh’s Minister for Science and Technology, Dasanglu Pul, inaugurated a geothermal energy-powered drying unit in Dirang, West Kameng district, on November 10. This initiative marks a significant step towards utilizing renewable energy for agricultural development and improving farmers’ livelihoods.
The facility was launched in the presence of Norway’s Ambassador to India, Me-Ailin Steiner, Dirang’s MLA and advisor to the minister, Furpa Tsering, along with scientists and experts from India, Norway, and Iceland. The Ministry of Earth Sciences provided funding for the center, with additional financial support from the Arunachal Pradesh government.
In her address, Minister Pul emphasized that this project would facilitate the transformation of scientific research and technological innovations into practical solutions, benefiting farmers and rural communities. The center will utilize geothermal heat to dry and preserve locally produced agricultural and livestock products, including kiwi, apples, persimmons, and yak meat.
She noted that this technology would help reduce post-harvest losses, increase the market value of local products, boost farmers’ incomes, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
As the chairperson of the Center for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies, Pul acknowledged the technical cooperation from Norway and Iceland in establishing this center. During her speech, she urged the Ministry of Earth Sciences to issue formal approval for the previously sanctioned Seismic Microzonation Project for Arunachal Pradesh.
Highlighting the state’s vulnerability to earthquakes, she stated that this project is particularly crucial as Arunachal Pradesh falls under Seismic Zone-5, the highest risk category in the country. The proposed initiative would strengthen disaster preparedness, aid in the scientific assessment of earthquake risks, and assist in planning safe infrastructure across the state.
Pul also expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Pema Khandu for his continuous support in promoting scientific innovation, research, and sustainable development initiatives in Arunachal Pradesh.
Welcoming Norway’s Ambassador Me-Ailin Steiner on her first visit to the state, the minister expressed hope that the geothermal drying initiative would pave the way for extensive international cooperation in renewable energy, scientific research, and technology transfer.
The event was attended by scientific advisor Jagveer Singh from the Ministry of Earth Sciences and Soloma Yomdo, Director of Exploration and Development at Oil India Limited. Minister Pul congratulated the director of the Center for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies, Tana Tage, and his team, along with Oil India Limited and international partners, for their contributions to the successful implementation of the project. She emphasized the importance of making scientific advancements accessible to the public, stating that true scientific success lies not just in achievements within laboratories, but in translating research and innovations into real-life improvements for people.
