Itanagar, Nov 10 (PTI) Arunachal Pradesh Science and Technology Minister Dasanglu Pul on Tuesday inaugurated a geothermal-powered drying facility at Dirang in West Kameng district, aimed at reducing post-harvest losses, enhancing farmers’ incomes and promoting the use of renewable energy in agriculture.
The facility, funded by the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences with additional support from the state government, was inaugurated in the presence of Norwegian Ambassador to India May-Elin Stener, Dirang MLA Phurpa Tsering and scientists and experts from India, Norway and Iceland.
Pul said the initiative marked an important step towards translating scientific research into practical solutions for farmers and rural communities, an official statement said.
The facility uses natural geothermal heat to dry and preserve locally produced agricultural and livestock products, including kiwi, apple, persimmon and yak meat. The technology is expected to minimise post-harvest losses, improve the market value of local produce and create sustainable livelihood opportunities, she said.
Pul, who also chairs the Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CES&HS), appreciated the technical cooperation extended by Norway and Iceland in developing the facility.
The minister urged the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences to issue the sanction order for the already-approved Seismic Microzonation Project in Arunachal Pradesh, stressing its importance for strengthening disaster preparedness and ensuring safer infrastructure development.
She pointed out that the state falls under Seismic Zone V, the highest seismic hazard classification in the country, making scientific assessment of earthquake risks particularly important.
The proposed project would help identify areas vulnerable to seismic hazards and support informed planning and development, she said.
Welcoming Stener on her maiden visit to Arunachal Pradesh, Pul expressed hope that the geothermal initiative would pave the way for stronger international cooperation in renewable energy, scientific research and technology transfer.
The programme was also attended by the Ministry of Earth Sciences Scientist-G and adviser Dr Jagvir Singh and Oil India Limited Director (Exploration and Development) Soloma Yomdo.
Pul congratulated CES&HS Director Tana Tage and his team, Oil India Limited, and international partners for their contributions to the project.
Emphasising the need to make scientific advancements accessible to ordinary people, the minister said the success of science should be measured by its ability to bring tangible improvements to people’s lives.
She expressed hope that the Dirang facility would serve as a model for similar sustainable development initiatives across the state, the statement added. PTI CORR RG
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