The newly appointed Secretary of the Department of Science & Technology in the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, Repo Ronya, IAS, made his first official visit to the Centre of Excellence for Bioresources and Sustainable Development (CoE for BRSD) in Kimin on June 6th, 2023. Accompanied by various dignitaries, including Deputy Commissioner Cheechung Chukhu and Joint Director Bamang Apo, Secretary Ronya planted plant saplings in the CoE campus to commemorate World Environment Day.
During the visit, Dr. Debajit Mahanta, Centre Director of DBT-APSCS&T CoE for BRSD, welcomed the Chairman of APSCS&T, Bamang Mangha, Secretary Repo Ronya, Deputy Commissioner Cheechung Chukhu, and other esteemed guests to the CoE. Dr. Mahanta provided an overview of the CoE’s ongoing activities and achievements, highlighting developments in the areas of orchids, aromatic plants, and banana fiber. The CoE has established an Orchidarium and satellite units across various districts to promote orchid-based entrepreneurship in rural areas.
Regarding banana fiber processing, over 672 beneficiaries have been selected for the establishment of processing units. Additionally, 5000 banana saplings of improved varieties have been distributed to beneficiaries for cultivation. Processing units have been set up in Tapa Riang, Seram, and Nampong villages. The CoE has also established aroma processing units in three selected districts of the state. The CoE’s researchers have made significant contributions, publishing research papers in peer-reviewed journals and securing four patents in these areas.
Deputy Commissioner Cheechung Chukhu praised the rapid development of the CoE, highlighting its potential as a role model in terms of infrastructure and research facilities. He emphasized the benefits the CoE can bring to farmers, entrepreneurs, students, and neighboring areas through exposure visits.
Secretary Repo Ronya commended the efforts of the scientists and officers at the CoE in achieving excellence in bioresources research and development. He encouraged young scientists to pursue innovative R&D endeavors for the socio-techno-economic upliftment of the tribal population of Arunachal Pradesh.
Chairman Bamang Mangha stressed the importance of science and technology in achieving sustainable development in the state. He expressed gratitude to Secretary Repo Ronya and Deputy Commissioner Cheechung Chukhu for their visit and for their encouragement of the CoE’s scientists and officials.
