Pasighat: Progressive farmer and community leader Popok Darin of Arunachal Pradesh, who spent more than five decades in agriculture and started farming at the age of eight, died of cardiac arrest early Sunday morning. He was 63.
Darin suffered cardiac arrest at around 3:30 am and was taken to Bakin Pertin General Hospital in Pasighat, where doctors declared him dead.
A resident of Kiyit village under Mebo Sub-Division, Darin managed nearly 20 hectares of maize cultivation and also grew paddy, mustard, pulses, oilseeds and bananas. He was also involved in integrated fish farming.
Darin also advocated reforms to improve the condition of farmers. He called for an effective government procurement system to provide better market access and fair returns for agricultural produce.
He encouraged young people to take up agriculture as a viable and respectable profession. His work in farming and rural development earned him respect among the agricultural community in East Siang.
Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng expressed grief over Darin’s death and recalled his contributions to the community.
“Community leader and progressive farmer Late Shri Popok Darin of Kiyit village, Mebo, will always be remembered for his simplicity, self-reliance, dedication and contribution to the community. Bibing, you will always remain in our hearts and memories. May your soul rest in eternal peace,” Tayeng said in his condolence message.
Darin is survived by his wife, two sons and three daughters. His last rites will be performed at his residence in Kiyit village on Monday.