State plans to export Bird’s Eye Chilli to Germany: Agriculture Minister

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.