States » EastPosted at: Nov 10 2026 10:41PM


Arunachal: Geothermal drying unit inaugurated at Dirang; Pul seeks clearance for seismic microzonation project

Itanagar, Nov 10 (UNI) Arunachal Pradesh Science and Technology Minister Dasanglu Pul on Tuesday inaugurated a geothermal-powered drying unit at Dirang in West Kameng district, marking an initiative to harness renewable energy for agricultural development and improve farmers' livelihoods.
The facility, funded by the union Ministry of Earth Sciences with gap funding from the state government, was inaugurated in the presence of Norwegian Ambassador to India May-Elin Stener, Dirang MLA and advisor to the minister Phurpa Tsering, and scientists and experts from India, Norway and Iceland.
Addressing the gathering, Pul said the facility would help translate scientific research into practical solutions for farmers and rural communities by using natural geothermal heat to dry and preserve locally produced agricultural and livestock products.
The unit is expected to process products such as kiwi, apple, persimmon and yak meat, helping reduce post-harvest losses, improve product value, increase farmers' incomes and generate sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Pul, who also chairs the Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CES&HS), appreciated the technical cooperation extended by Norway and Iceland in developing the facility.
On the occasion, she urged the union Ministry of Earth Sciences to issue the sanction order for the approved Seismic Microzonation Project in Arunachal Pradesh, stating that it was crucial for strengthening the state's earthquake preparedness.
Pointing out that Arunachal Pradesh falls under Seismic Zone V, the country's highest seismic hazard classification, she said the project would help improve disaster risk assessment and support safer infrastructure planning.
Welcoming the Norwegian ambassador on her maiden visit to the state, Pul expressed hope that the initiative would encourage further international collaboration in renewable energy, scientific research and technology transfer.
She also acknowledged Chief Minister Pema Khandu's support for scientific innovation and sustainable development and congratulated CES&HS Director Tana Tage and his team, Oil India Limited and the international partners for their contributions to the project.
The programme was also attended by Ministry of Earth Sciences Scientist-G and advisor Dr Jagvir Singh and Oil India Limited Director (Exploration and Development) Soloma Yomdo. Pul said the real success of scientific advancement lay in its ability to improve people's lives and expressed hope that the Dirang facility would serve as a model for similar sustainable development initiatives across the state.
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