ITBP’s First-Ever Procurement of Local Organic Produce Marks Historic Day in Lohit

ITBP’s First-Ever Procurement of Local Organic Produce Marks Historic Day in Lohit. In a major step toward sustainable rural development and border food security, the 9th Battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police conducted its first procurement of local organic produce under the ambitious Mission Arun Himveer in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lohit district. The initiative marks a significant milestone in building an institutional market for local farmers while ensuring nutritious food for border forces. The procurement included 200kg of bananas, 100 kg od pumpkins and 100 kg of pineapples from the Lohit Organic Farmers Producer Company Limited.  The event was attended by several dignitaries, including MLA Dr. Mohesh Chai, who described the initiative as “historic.” He praised the mission for addressing multiple challenges simultaneously promoting organic farming, improving soldiers’ nutrition, encouraging reverse migration, and empowering the border economy. Dr. Chai also cautioned against the use of formalin-laced frozen foods and urged ITBP units to prioritize fresh local alternatives. He emphasized that institutional procurement like this could help steer farmers away from illegal practices such as opium cultivation. Deputy Commissioner K.N. Damo lauded the direct farm-to-force model for reducing supply chain complexity while improving food quality and freshness. He acknowledged farmer concerns regarding low procurement prices and assured