Tripura’s Agriculture Minister, Ratan Lal Nath announced on Friday that the state government has set an ambitious goal to expand organic farming across 50,000 hectares. The plan includes exporting Bird’s Eye Chilli, a popular local produce, to Germany.
The announcement came during a distribution event at the SARS Complex in AD Nagar, Agartala, where the minister handed over transport vehicles (pick-up vans) to the Farmers Producer Company (FPC). This initiative is designed to empower farmers by improving their logistics capabilities, helping them efficiently transport their produce to markets and distribution centers.
Speaking to reporters, Minister Nath emphasized the government's commitment to doubling farmers' income, particularly through the promotion of organic and scientific farming methods. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for the government's increased focus on sustainable agriculture, which aims to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
“The government is taking all necessary steps to assist farmers, from cultivation to market sales. Over the past six years, we have distributed 30 vehicles to farmers, and today we are adding four more. So far, we have formed 40 FPCs. Farming is not just about cultivation; if the produce cannot reach the market, it will go to waste. That is why FPCs, working with the Agriculture Department are focusing on enhancing scientific and organic farming practices,” Nath explained.
In addition to the Bird’s Eye Chilli export plans, Minister Nath highlighted the state’s successful export of Queen Pineapple to Germany. He noted that the demand for organic products such as Bird’s Eye Chilli and scented rice is growing internationally, with Germany being a key market.
“Tripura has already sent pineapples to Germany, and now there is strong demand for Bird’s Eye Chilli. We are working hard to expand the cultivation of organic crops. When the BJP government came into power, there were only 2,000 hectares of land under organic farming. Today, over 26,000 hectares are dedicated to organic agriculture, and we aim to reach 50,000 hectares soon,” he stated.
The state is also introducing new farming technologies to further enhance productivity and sustainability in agriculture. This large-scale push towards organic farming aligns with the government's broader goal of boosting both domestic and international demand for Tripura's agricultural produce.
Tripura demanded 20pc devolution of taxes in forests and ecology category: CM Saha
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said, adding that keeping this in mind, the state government has sought 20 per cent devolution of taxes in the forests and ecology category to the 16th Finance Commission, which is now visiting the state.
Stage set for FM Sitharaman to present Budget 2025-26 tomorrow
The unveiling of the Economic Survey on Friday sets the stage for Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to present the Union Budget for 2025-26 in Parliament on Saturday (February 1), which is expected to continue the government's policy of giving a big push to economic growth with equity.
CPI-M central committee member Jitendra Chaudhury re-elected as Tripura unit Secretary
Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) central committee member Jitendra Chaudhury re-elected as party’s Tripura state Secretary in the three-day (January 29 to 31) 24th state conference of the Left party.
States should boost biz reforms to generate higher incomes for citizens: Eco Survey
States should focus on business reforms on a priority basis to achieve buoyancies in some industrial or service sectors, the Economic Survey 2024-25 said on Friday.
NCERT team seizes pirated textbooks in Agartala
Officials of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), along with Tripura Police, seized pirated NCERT books that were being sold to students in bookshops in Agartala, officials said on Friday.
Mamta Kulkarni's past haunts her, leads to expulsion from Kinnar Akhada
Actress Mamta Kulkarni, who ruled the 90s, has been expelled from the Kinnar Akhada. The designation of Mahamandaleshwar, which was given to the actress, has been revoked. The reason behind the same has been revealed to the actress’ past link to cinema, and her alleged criminal past.
Eco Survey suggests enhanced deregulation for MSMEs to boost growth
Faster economic growth is only possible if the Union and state governments continue to implement reforms that allow small and medium enterprises to operate efficiently and compete cost-effectively, said the Economic Survey 2024 on Friday.
Lifestyle choices, workplace culture key for mental well-being, productivity: Eco Survey
Lifestyle choices and workplace culture are critical for the mental well-being and thus, the productivity of the people in India, according to the Economic Survey 2024-25 on Friday.