ITANAGAR: Dasanglu Pul, the Science and Technology Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, has presented a number of significant proposals to the Centre, which are intended to enhance biodiversity conservation and encourage bioeconomic innovation within the state.
During a recent meeting in New Delhi with Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Pul proposed the creation of India’s inaugural ex-situ germplasm bank within the state to safeguard rare and economically significant plant species.
Additionally, she suggested the establishment of an Eastern Arunachal Regional Centre for Bioresource Management and Development, aimed at the sustainable utilization of the state’s extensive ecological resources.
To promote biotech entrepreneurship, Pul further advocated for the creation of a Bio-NEST Bioincubator in Roing, located in the Lower Dibang Valley district. This facility is envisioned as a specialized platform to assist biotechnology startups and research initiatives.
Addressing administrative hurdles, the minister also called upon the Centre to hasten the disbursement of core grant support to the Arunachal Pradesh State Council for Science & Technology (APSCS&T), emphasizing the necessity to address staffing issues.
“Our state boasts an extraordinary diversity of biodiversity. Immediate action is required to preserve it while establishing a robust foundation for scientific research and innovation,” Pul remarked.
She emphasized that these initiatives are designed not only to protect natural resources but also to convert them into sustainable economic prospects for local communities. In response to the proposals, Dr. Jitendra Singh commended the state government’s vision and reaffirmed the Centre’s unwavering support.
He noted that the transformation of the northeast has been a focal point since 2014 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting substantial advancements in infrastructure, connectivity, and the development of human capital.
