Agartala, Jan 18 (NationPress) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Tripura is set to enhance agricultural market infrastructure across the state to elevate farmers' income and fortify their livelihoods, as stated by State Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Sunday.

Nath mentioned that to further boost farmers' earnings and achieve self-reliance in food grain production, the government will invest in infrastructure—including market buildings—in each of the 60 Assembly constituencies, amounting to a total budget of Rs 158 crore.

"Before the BJP took power in Tripura in 2018, the previous Left Front government constructed infrastructure for 71 agricultural markets over a span of seven years from 2011 to 2018, with an expenditure of Rs 20.60 crore. In stark contrast, the BJP government has developed infrastructure in 204 agricultural markets, investing Rs 461.83 crore over its seven-year tenure," the Minister told IANS.

He added that the enhanced agricultural market infrastructure will significantly benefit farmers, providing them with better facilities to sell their produce.

Currently, Tripura has 554 agricultural markets, although not all are equipped with adequate infrastructure.

"Out of these 554 markets, 21 are regulated, 63 are wholesale, and 470 are rural markets," he specified.

This year, Rs 158 crore will be allocated for the development of infrastructure in 60 additional agricultural markets. Minister Nath emphasized that the government views development in the agricultural sector as a non-partisan initiative aimed at creating job opportunities and fostering self-reliance among the populace.

The Minister also touched upon initiatives for women's empowerment, noting that the number of self-help groups (SHGs) in the state has surged from 4,160 prior to the current BJP government to a whopping 50,054 now.

Over 1.08 lakh women have achieved the status of 'Lakhpati Didis', with the South Tripura district leading in numbers.

"While not everyone can secure government employment, we are focused on creating livelihood opportunities that foster economic self-reliance, particularly among women," he added.

Minister Nath remarked that 'Lakhpati Didis' not only enjoy economic empowerment but are also guiding their families towards prosperity.

This progress can be attributed to the determination of women, government support, and community involvement.

Moreover, he noted that these 'Lakhpati Didis' serve as an inspiration to others by adopting sustainable livelihood practices and achieving a respectable standard of living.

A 'Lakhpati Didi' is defined as an SHG member with an annual household income exceeding Rs 1 lakh.