DELHI: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia launched the ₹167-crore “Arunachal Kiwi” mission, a cluster-based initiative aimed at transforming Arunachal Pradesh into India’s leading premium organic kiwi producer with strong export potential.
The mission, unveiled in the presence of Pema Khandu, focuses on value-chain development, cold-storage infrastructure, branding, processing and export integration for kiwi farmers across the state.
The Centre said the project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Viksit North East” vision and seeks to position “Arunachal Organic Kiwi” as a globally competitive brand.
Under the mission, six integrated post-harvest management hubs will be developed in Ziro Valley, Dirang, Kalaktang, Shi Yomi and Dibang Valley. The initiative targets restoration of organic certification, expansion of cold-chain capacity up to 2,000 MT, reduction in distress sales and better price realisation for farmers.
Scindia said Arunachal currently contributes more than 50% of India’s kiwi production, but farmers often receive low returns compared to imported kiwi sold in domestic and global markets. He said the mission would strengthen farmer producer organisations, improve traceability through QR-enabled packaging and expand export access to Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
The government also plans to promote kiwi-based agri-tourism and farm-stay experiences in Ziro Valley and Dirang as part of the broader “Brand North East” strategy.
Chief Minister Khandu said the initiative would support sustainable livelihoods and provide a viable alternative to shifting cultivation in high-altitude regions of the state.
