Agartala, Sep 11 (NationPress) In an effort to enhance farmers' earnings, the Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Department, with support from the Central government, is in the process of transforming 21 markets into e-markets in Tripura, allowing agricultural products to reach consumers nationwide, as announced by a minister on Thursday.

During the inauguration of the newly built market at Kulai and a Village Knowledge Centre at Noagaon in Dhalai district, Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath revealed that efforts are underway to convert these 21 markets into e-markets throughout Tripura.

The state currently boasts a total of 554 agricultural markets, including 84 wholesale markets, of which 21 serve as agri-produce markets.

“Having been in power for seven years, the BJP government recognizes that merely producing agricultural goods isn't sufficient. We must enhance market infrastructure to ensure that these products can be marketed effectively, similar to industrial goods. Prior to 2018, the government allocated Rs 20.20 crore for market development, while in the last seven years, we have invested Rs 303 crore, demonstrating our commitment to farmers,” stated the Minister.

The department plans to implement the conversion of these 21 markets into e-markets under the Electronic National Agriculture Market scheme.

This initiative, launched by the Central government, aims to empower farmers to sell their products online by simply uploading images and details from the comfort of their homes, ensuring they receive fair prices.

Nath elaborated that the Tripura government is gradually integrating these 21 markets into the e-market system. Initially, seven markets located in Panisagar, Pabiachara, Kulai Bazar, Teliamura, Mohanpur, Sonamura, and Santirbazar will transition to the e-market format.

Subsequently, 12 additional markets, such as Dasda, Bachaibari, Kalyanpur, Champaknagar, Bishalgarh, Jampuijala, Melaghar, Barpathari, Natun Bazar, Ganda Twisa, and Chawmanu, will be included.

According to the minister, each market will be equipped with an office, an auction platform, drinking water facilities, stalls, a laboratory, a grading and sorting system, a weighing system, and a warehouse.

The state government has secured Rs 2.10 crore from the Central government for the initial seven markets.

“Our primary goal is to double farmers' incomes and ensure they obtain fair prices for their produce. Agriculture is the cornerstone of our state's development and economy,” emphasized the minister.