Guwahati, Nov. 10 -- In a state where difficult terrain, limited market access and natural hazards pose persistent challenges to rural development, a new geothermal-powered drying facility in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh's West Kameng district, aims to turn the earth's natural heat into an economic resource for farmers.

Science and Technology Minister Dasanglu Pul inaugurated the facility on Tuesday, highlighting its potential to reduce post-harvest losses, increase the value of local produce and create new livelihood opportunities.

The initiative also raises a broader development question for Arunachal Pradesh: how can scientific research be translated into practical solutions for communities living in a mountainous region that is rich in...