A recent study released highlights Arunachal Pradesh’s rapid emergence as the gateway for the Asia-Pacific region. The Northeastern State, transitioning from shifting jhum cultivation to settled agriculture, is witnessing substantial growth in subsistence farming, according to the study conducted by the MSME Export Promotion Council and the Confederation of Organic Food Products & Marketing Agencies-COII.
Covering the period from 2018-19 to 2022-23, the study underscores Arunachal’s vast potential for agro, forest, and mineral-based micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Despite the State currently hosting an estimated 23,000 MSMEs employing 41,000 individuals, there is immense room for growth and development in this sector.
Papum Pare district, ranking second in employment generation after agriculture, has notably benefited from MSMEs, constituting 60 per cent of industrial units, 35 per cent of manufacturing output, and 30 per cent of the service sector.
However, the study also identifies challenges hindering the performance of MSMEs, including management-related issues such as production, marketing, human resources, finances, technology, and infrastructure.
Addressing these challenges is crucial for unleashing higher industrial growth and maximizing the sector’s potential.
Moreover, Arunachal Pradesh boasts substantial untapped hydroelectric potential, estimated at nearly 57,000 MW, with only 1771 MW currently generated. The study suggests tapping into this potential through small hydro projects, potentially increasing the State’s GDP and revenues.
MSME EPC Chairman Dr DS Rawat emphasized the significance of Arunachal’s agricultural and floricultural opportunities, noting their potential to enhance farmers’ incomes and provide sustainable livelihoods.
He accentuated the substantial new investment projects announced for Arunachal Pradesh, amounting to Rs 564.63 crore during 2021-22, as per CMIE data.
The study, titled – Arunachal Pradesh Investment, Growth & Development with immense opportunities with Asian Countries – underscores the State’s promising trajectory and its potential to become a key player in the Asia-Pacific region.
