Tripura Agriculture Minister Claims Farmers' Income Has Doubled in Seven Years

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Farmers' income doubled in 7 years.
- Tripura's government prioritizes farmers' welfare.
- 30 out of 58 blocks are food self-sufficient.
- Potato productivity increased significantly.
- Tripura aims for self-sufficiency in potato by 2028-29.
Agartala, April 14 (NationPress) Achieving the targets set by both the Central and state governments, the monthly income of farmers in Tripura has doubled over a span of seven years, stated Tripura Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Monday.
During an official event at the tribal area of Takarjala in the Sepahijala district, the Minister revealed that when the BJP administration took charge in Tripura in 2018, the monthly earnings of farmers stood at Rs 6,580, which has now risen to Rs 13,590.
“Our government is committed to enhancing farmers’ income further, as their overall welfare is the BJP government’s primary focus,” he remarked.
He noted that of the 58 blocks in Tripura, 30 have achieved self-sufficiency in food production.
“Tripura is among the top states in the northeastern region for producing rice seeds,” said Nath, who also oversees the Power portfolio.
Referring to farmers as ‘Annadata’, the minister emphasized that without the advancement of cultivators, the development of both the state and the nation is unattainable.
“We must show our genuine affection for the farmers and honor them appropriately. If farmers are content and healthy, the populace will also thrive,” Nath highlighted.
He mentioned that the Tripura government annually purchases paddy from farmers at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), noting that potato productivity in the state has surged to three times the previous average of 3066 kg per 0.39669 acre.
Claiming that Tripura is on track to achieve self-sufficiency in potato production by 2028-29, the minister stated that under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), the government has been offering comprehensive support and guidance to adopt advanced technology for boosting potato yields in the state.
He added that while Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Gujarat, Bihar, and West Bengal are the primary suppliers of potato seeds in India, the state government sources its potato seeds from Kurukshetra in Haryana.
Among all vegetables, potatoes hold a vital role in Indian cuisine, making them indispensable in various vegetable dishes. Although generally affordable year-round, high demand can sometimes lead to shortages that attract media coverage.