Arunachal: Koje Jangoo, Kirat Biotech train Siang farmers on high-value MAP cultivation

Pangin: Koje Jangoo MAP Farmer Producer Company, in collaboration with Kirat Biotech Private Limited, successfully organized an awareness program titled “Potential of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants for Livelihood Generation and Regional Growth” at the Pangin Community Hall in Arunachal Pradesh's Siang District on Monday.

Over 100 farmers from Siang and neighboring areas, including Pasighat in East Siang district, participated in the landmark event.

The program brought together local farmers, experienced resource persons, and industry stakeholders on a common platform to discuss sustainable livelihood opportunities through the cultivation and processing of medicinal and aromatic plants.

Distinguished resource persons included Dr. Iswar Chandra Barua, Retired Principal Scientist (Assam Agricultural University), directors of Kirat Biotech Private Limited, progressive farmers from the region, and representatives from Koje Jangoo.

Pramila Choudhury, Director of Kirat Biotech, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of medicinal plant cultivation in empowering farmers, generating sustainable employment opportunities, diversifying incomes, and strengthening economic security across the region.

She also outlined Kirat Biotech’s future plans and the crucial involvement of farmers in these initiatives. Manish Choudhury, Director of Kirat Biotech, discussed post-harvest strategies and unveiled plans to establish a local processing unit for farmers’ benefit.

Tajing Darang, a Koje Jangoo member, spoke about Kirat Biotech’s sustained contributions in the region.

He also invited non-members to join Koje Jangoo to enhance farmers’ bargaining power and called for unified efforts to establish Siang as a regional hub for medicinal and aromatic plant cultivation, starting from Sugandhmantri.

Dr. Iswar Chandra Barua shared in-depth agro-techniques and scientific cultivation methods for Sugandhmantri, emphasizing its potential as a high-value crop suitable for cluster farming, wasteland utilization, and market-resilient storage.

He further remarked, “Cultivation and scientific management of Sugandhmantri can boost farmers’ economy across Northeast India. With proper buyback agreements, Kirat Biotech can elevate farming of this crop to new heights.”

Progressive farmer and Koje Jangoo Director Taying Taki spoke about how working together helps farmers meet large orders from buyers.

He also shared his experience with group selling and explained how a special solar dryer, made with Kirat Biotech’s unique technology, helps him dry fruits and vegetables effectively for local markets.

Progressive farmers Tagum Sitang and Tajir Siram also talked about their experience growing medicinal plants in their natural environment.

They shared useful tips on caring for Sugandhmantri, a plant that grows well in the shade.

Tajir also stressed the importance of keeping agreements with buyers and urged farmers to honor their commitments to build trust and ensure the program’s success.

The program concluded with a strong appeal from leaders and participants to work together for regional progress, aiming to make Siang and nearby areas successful centers for cultivating medicinal and aromatic plants.

Koje Jangoo MAP Farmer Producer Company is a farmer-led organization based in Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh, established in 2024 to promote the cultivation and conservation of regionally endemic medicinal and aromatic plants.

Collaborating closely with Kirat Biotech Pvt. Ltd., the FPC provides members with technical support, assured buyback agreements, and market access for these high-value crops.

It fosters organic and sustainable farming practices to empower local farmers and support biodiversity conservation.

Kirat Biotech Private Limited, based in Guwahati's Kamrup, empowers farmers and conserves biodiversity through the sustainable cultivation and processing of high-value medicinal and aromatic plants endemic to Northeast India.

The company provides technical assistance, assured buyback arrangements, and market linkages to build resilient MAP value chains benefiting rural communities.