Agartala, Jan 5 (NationPress) In a significant move to enhance farmers' income and achieve self-reliance in food grain production, the Tripura state government plans to establish 60 new agricultural markets at an investment of Rs 158 crore, announced Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Monday.

The Minister emphasized that the BJP government prioritizes inclusive growth and employment generation, rather than viewing development through a political lens.

Nath made these comments during the inauguration of a new market stall and a double-storied market complex at Manpather Bazar in the South Tripura district. He also launched infrastructure upgrades at the primary rural market in Santir Bazar.

Subsequently, the Minister visited the Centre of Excellence for Vegetables located at Bir Chandra Manu in South Tripura district.

He pointed out that out of the 60 such centres across India, Tripura hosts two — one at Jumderdhep in Sepahijala district and the other at Bir Chandra Manu.

This centre is dedicated to producing high-quality vegetable seedlings year-round, utilizing a blend of advanced Israeli and Indian technologies, including cutting-edge soilless seedling production methods.

Regarding rural employment initiatives, Nath stated that the new VB GRAM G Act 2025 will be advantageous for all segments of society. The act has expanded workdays from 100 to 125 days.

For Northeastern states, the Centre will cover 90 percent of the costs, while the state will contribute the remaining 10 percent, a significant difference from the 60:40 funding model applicable to other states.

Highlighting government spending, Nath revealed that only Rs 20 crore was allocated for establishing agricultural markets in the seven years leading up to 2018, whereas the current BJP government has invested Rs 303 crore for the same purpose since coming to power in 2018.

“This year alone, Rs 158 crore will be allocated for establishing 60 additional agricultural markets. We do not perceive political bias in development projects. Our objective is to create employment opportunities and foster self-reliance,” Nath stated.

He mentioned that approximately 8.10 lakh assets have been created in the state, underscoring the necessity of maintaining market infrastructure and ensuring quality produce to attract buyers from distant regions.

The Minister also noted women’s empowerment efforts, highlighting that the number of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the state has surged from 4,160 before the current government took office in 2018 to 50,054 currently.

He stated that over 1.08 lakh women have become ‘Lakhpati Didis’, with South Tripura district leading in these numbers.

“While not everyone can secure a government job, we are committed to creating livelihood opportunities and ensuring economic self-reliance, particularly for women,” he concluded.