Arunachal Farming Leader Popok Darin Dies at 63

Itanagar: Popok Darin, a prominent community leader and farmer from Arunachal Pradesh, died early Sunday morning. He suffered a cardiac arrest around 3:30 am. He was 63. Medics at the Bakin Pertin General Hospital in Pasighat declared him dead upon arrival.

Darin lived in Kiyit village within the Mebo Sub-Division. He farmed for over fifty years, starting his career at age eight. He managed nearly 20 hectares of maize alongside paddy, mustard, pulses, oilseeds, and bananas. He also practiced integrated fish farming.

Beyond his fields, Darin pushed for government procurement systems to help farmers secure fair market prices. He urged local youth to view agriculture as a respectable career. His efforts earned him deep respect across the East Siang region.

Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng mourned his passing. Tayeng said, "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."

Darin is survived by his wife, two sons, and three daughters. Family members will hold his last rites on Monday at his Kiyit village residence.