Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has officially launched Organic Rakta Red Rice, a premium indigenous variety cultivated in the high-altitude regions of Tawang district, marking a major step toward promoting organic agriculture, protecting traditional crops, and creating better livelihood opportunities for local farmers.
The launch event, held in Tawang, highlighted the unique qualities of Rakta rice — known for its deep red hue, rich nutritional profile, and resilience to cold climatic conditions. This heirloom variety has been grown organically for generations by Tawang farmers without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides, preserving both soil health and cultural heritage.
Key highlights from the launch include:
- Official branding and packaging of Organic Rakta Red Rice under a state-supported label to help it reach wider domestic and potentially international markets.
- Emphasis on its health benefits: high in antioxidants, fiber, iron, and essential minerals, making it a superfood choice for health-conscious consumers.
- Commitment from the Chief Minister to provide marketing support, GI tag facilitation (if applicable), and linkages with organic certification agencies to increase farmer income.
- Plans to scale up cultivation through cluster-based farming, seed conservation programs, and training in modern organic techniques while maintaining traditional methods.
CM Khandu described the initiative as a tribute to Tawang’s farming communities and a practical way to blend tradition with economic progress. He stated that promoting indigenous crops like Rakta red rice not only safeguards biodiversity but also positions Arunachal Pradesh as a source of premium, chemical-free food products in the national market.
The launch is part of the state’s broader push toward organic farming, sustainable agriculture, and value addition for local produce. By giving traditional varieties like Rakta a modern identity and market presence, the government aims to reduce dependency on external inputs, improve soil fertility, and generate higher returns for small and marginal farmers in remote border areas.
This development is expected to inspire similar efforts for other indigenous crops across the Northeast, contributing to food security, cultural preservation, and rural prosperity.
Tags: Arunachal Pradesh Organic Farming, Rakta Red Rice Launch, Tawang Agriculture, Pema Khandu Initiative, Indigenous Crop Promotion, Organic Red Rice Arunachal, Northeast Organic Produce, Farmer Livelihood Boost, Traditional Rice Varieties, Arunachal Pradesh News
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