TEZU, 10 Oct: A grassroots enterprise development dialogue was held here in Lohit district on Saturday, marking one year of the SIDBI-supported project implemented by REACHA, in collaboration with Indira Gandhi Government College (IGGC) and the Lohit KVK.

Over the past year, 119 farmers from Lohit district have received technical training and guidance to establish both group and individual enterprises in orange cultivation and allied value addition. This effort has already led to the creation of a group enterprise (AOP) for 10 farmers from Bekhuliang panchayat and 11 individual MSMEs, while also building market and credit linkages to ensure long-term sustainability.

The grassroots dialogue also saw the release of the Orange Revival publication.

IGGC Vice Principal Dr Manas Kumar Jana commended the SIDBI and REACHA for their commitment to reaching the last mile, strengthening farmer communities, and presenting MSME and AOP certifications to participants.

From REACHA, chief development officer Mudit Pant, project officer Saurav Kumar, and field coordinator Helen shared the year's progress, and reaffirmed the organisation's vision to empower Arunachal Pradesh' communities and prepare them for market readiness.

Farmers shared their experiences, expressing appreciation for the support and opportunities created through this initiative, which has begun to transform grassroots farming into sustainable enterprises.