In a major boost for rural development and conservation efforts, Arunachal Pradesh’s Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (RD & PR) Minister Ojing Tasing distributed financial aid and launched a conservation initiative in Mebo on Saturday. The event, held under the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM), was attended by several prominent leaders, including Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng, 37th Pasighat West MLA Ninong Ering, Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek, and Deputy Commissioner of Pasighat Tayi Taggu. Minister Tasing distributed cheques and appreciation certificates to various Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to promote financial self-reliance and encourage sustainable livelihoods. The Irsi Artong SHG received recognition for their innovations in natural dye production, which have been showcased at national exhibitions, including an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Astha Laxmi Mahotsav in Noida.
To strengthen rural producer groups, Tasing handed over a cheque worth ₹18 lakh to the Monggu Ane Didum Model Cluster Level Federation (MCLF), aimed at supporting 12 Producer Groups in creating small-scale aggregation centers and enhancing product value. Additionally, a revolving fund of ₹17.25 lakh was presented to Bosi Didum MCLF and Monggu Ane Didum MCLF, benefiting 114 SHGs with working capital.In a landmark conservation effort, Tasing launched the “Airgun Ki:ruk” initiative under the Mebo Sub-Division to curb the use and sale of airguns, which have led to a significant decline in bird and squirrel populations. Rooted in traditional conservation practices, the initiative aims to restore local biodiversity.
Following the event, Minister Tasing and 40th Mariyang-Geku MLA Oni Panyang attended a thanksgiving ceremony for Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng. Speaking to the media on the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), both Tasing and Panyang expressed support for Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s stance on the dam project, highlighting its strategic importance in countering China’s dam construction along the Siang River in Tibet.
