Arunachal Pradesh took a major step toward boosting its agri-economy on August 28 with the launch of its first outbound air cargo service from Donyi Polo Airport. Civil Aviation Minister Balo Raja flagged off the service under the theme “Empowering Farmers, Connecting Markets”, aimed at linking local producers to wider markets and ensuring faster movement of perishable goods.
“This initiative will open new horizons for our hardworking farmers,” Raja said in a post on X, highlighting the facility’s role in reducing wastage and securing better prices for cultivators, especially in remote districts. Officials noted the cargo service will focus on fruits, vegetables, flowers, and other perishables that are vulnerable to losses during conventional transport.
In parallel, the minister inspected the airport’s new terminal building, designed to accommodate more than 400 passengers at a time. Equipped with modern facilities, the terminal is scheduled for formal inauguration on September 2. “The new terminal is a symbol of Arunachal Pradesh’s growing connectivity and aspirations,” Raja remarked.
Donyi Polo Airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2022 as the state’s first greenfield airport, has seen steady growth in passenger traffic and flight operations. The cargo service and terminal expansion are part of the Centre’s UDAN scheme to strengthen air connectivity and economic integration across the Northeast.
