Tripura's Push for Enhanced Central Funding to Boost Hybrid Paddy Farming
Synopsis
On February 24, Tripura's Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath urged for more central funds to support farmer initiatives and promote large-scale hybrid paddy cultivation, emphasizing its importance for food security in the state. This appeal was made in a meeting chaired by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Key Takeaways
Tripura is advocating for additional central funding for farmer initiatives.
Hybrid paddy cultivation is vital for the state's food security.
The state has effectively utilized a significant portion of its agricultural funding.
Emphasis on agricultural mechanization to improve productivity.
Involvement of tribal farmers in agricultural initiatives is a priority.
Agartala, Feb 24 (NationPress) On Tuesday, Tripura's Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Ratan Lal Nath, urged for increased central funding aimed at enhancing various farmer-oriented initiatives and advocated for extensive hybrid paddy farming across the state.
This appeal was made during a financial review meeting focused on centrally sponsored schemes of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, which was conducted via video conferencing, led by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Nath emphasized the need for support to cultivate hybrid paddy on over 30,000 hectares under the RKVY-DPR project for the financial year 2026-27, highlighting that paddy accounts for approximately 50 percent of the agricultural land in Tripura and is vital for the state's food security.
The Union Minister reviewed the advancements of projects with representatives from 18 states, including Tripura, and expressed approval regarding the state's financial discipline and spending patterns.
During this meeting, Nath revealed that Tripura has effectively utilized 79 percent of the funds allocated under the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) Umbrella Scheme, 61 percent under the Krishi Utpada Yojana Umbrella Scheme, and 61 percent under the Natural Farming initiative.
He indicated the state's goal to fully leverage the budget allocations in the current fiscal year and appealed for additional funds to broaden farmer welfare programs.
“Our state ranks among the top five nationwide in terms of expenditure,” the Minister noted.
Emphasizing the government's commitment to agricultural mechanization, Nath requested an extra Rs 20 crore under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation (SMAM).
He also mentioned that the process of issuing Farm IDs is in progress and requested assistance in providing IDs to over 1.25 lakh tribal farmers who hold RoFR patta.
With nearly 96 percent of the farmers in Tripura being small and marginal, Nath called for an upward revision of cost standards in schemes like RKVY, the National Food Security Mission, and the National Mission on Oil Palm to better facilitate paddy cultivation and related activities.
The Union Agriculture Minister recognized the legitimacy of these requests and assured that necessary measures would be undertaken to expedite the funding process. The meeting also included contributions from Secretary Apurba Roy, Director Phanibhushan Jamatia, and other senior officials.
Point of View
Tripura's Agriculture Minister's appeal for additional central funding highlights the state's commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity. This initiative not only aims to secure food resources but also to uplift the livelihood of small and marginal farmers, reflecting a broader strategy to fortify the agricultural sector across India.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Tripura seeking additional central funding?
Tripura is seeking additional central funding to enhance various farmer-centric projects and promote large-scale hybrid paddy cultivation, crucial for the state's food security.
What is the significance of hybrid paddy cultivation in Tripura?
Hybrid paddy cultivation is significant as it utilizes approximately 50% of Tripura's agricultural land, which is essential for ensuring food security in the region.
How much funding has Tripura utilized under the PM-RKVY scheme?
Tripura has utilized 79% of the funds received under the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) Umbrella Scheme.
What are the expected outcomes of increased funding?
Increased funding is expected to expand farmer welfare initiatives, enhance agricultural mechanization, and support paddy cultivation and allied activities.
Who attended the financial review meeting?
The meeting was attended by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Secretary Apurba Roy, Director Phanibhushan Jamatia, and other senior officials.
