Arunachal Pradesh launches geothermal drying unit to raise farm earnings

Arunachal Pradesh's government officially opened a new drying unit that runs on geothermal energy, marking a first for the region's agricultural sector. The facility is designed to process a variety of crops, allowing farmers to preserve produce more efficiently and fetch better market prices.

The geothermal system uses heat extracted from the earth's interior, offering a renewable and cost‑effective alternative to conventional fuel‑based dryers. Officials highlighted that the technology reduces dependence on diesel and cuts operational expenses, which should translate into higher net returns for growers.

State officials said the unit will be made available to small and marginal farmers through a subscription model, ensuring that the benefits reach the most vulnerable producers. The inauguration is part of a broader push to modernise agriculture in the North‑East and improve rural livelihoods.