Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Wednesday launched the ambitious Rs 236 crore “Mission Queen Pineapple” initiative aimed at strengthening pineapple cultivation, improving farmer income, and boosting agricultural exports from the northeastern state.
The project seeks to promote Tripura’s famous Queen variety pineapple, which is known for its sweetness, flavour, and quality. Officials said the mission would focus on production enhancement, value addition, marketing, processing, and export infrastructure development.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Tripura’s horticulture sector and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for farmers across the state.
Leaders said the mission would also help position Tripura as a major fruit production and export hub in the Northeast.
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Mission Aims to Boost Farmers’ Income
Speaking during the launch programme, Scindia said the Mission Queen Pineapple initiative would create new economic opportunities for pineapple growers in Tripura.
He stated that the project aims to improve cultivation methods, increase productivity, and strengthen market access for local farmers.
According to officials, the mission will support farmers through infrastructure development, training programmes, better transportation systems, and modern farming techniques.
Scindia said the government wants to ensure that farmers receive fair prices and stronger market connections for their produce.
The Union Minister also highlighted the importance of value addition and food processing in improving rural income levels.
He added that the initiative reflects the Centre’s commitment to promoting agriculture and horticulture development in northeastern states.
Tripura CM Highlights Pineapple’s Global Potential
Chief Minister Manik Saha said Tripura’s Queen pineapple has already gained recognition for its premium quality in domestic and international markets.
He noted that the fruit received Geographical Indication (GI) recognition, which strengthened its identity and market value.
According to the Chief Minister, the new mission would help farmers increase production while improving export opportunities.
Saha said the government wants Tripura’s agricultural products to reach national and global markets more effectively.
He also stated that pineapple cultivation supports the livelihood of thousands of farming families across the state.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that Mission Queen Pineapple would transform the horticulture sector and create long-term economic benefits.
Focus on Infrastructure and Processing Facilities
Officials said the Rs 236 crore project would focus heavily on developing modern agricultural infrastructure.
The mission includes plans for better storage systems, processing centres, transportation facilities, and packaging units.
Authorities believe these improvements can reduce post-harvest losses and improve the overall supply chain for pineapple farmers.
The government also plans to strengthen cold chain systems and logistics support for faster transportation of fresh produce.
Officials stated that better infrastructure could help Tripura compete more effectively in national and international fruit markets.
The project may also encourage private investment in food processing and agri-business sectors within the state.
Export Promotion Key Part of Mission
Export promotion remains one of the central objectives of Mission Queen Pineapple.
Officials said the government aims to expand international demand for Tripura’s Queen pineapple by improving branding, quality control, and packaging standards.
The state has already exported pineapples to markets in the Middle East and other countries in recent years.
Authorities believe the new mission can significantly increase export volumes and strengthen Tripura’s agricultural economy.
Scindia said the government would work toward improving connectivity and transportation networks to support faster export movement.
He added that the Northeast possesses immense agricultural potential, and proper infrastructure can unlock new opportunities for farmers.
Farmers to Receive Technical Support
Officials said the project would provide farmers with training in modern cultivation methods, pest management, and sustainable farming practices.
Agricultural experts and extension workers are expected to assist farmers in improving productivity and maintaining quality standards.
The mission also plans to promote scientific farming techniques and efficient water management systems.
Authorities believe better technical support can increase production while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Officials said farmer producer organisations and cooperatives may also receive support under the programme to strengthen collective marketing and bargaining power.
The government expects these measures to improve both production efficiency and income generation.
Pineapple Sector Important for Tripura Economy
Pineapple cultivation remains an important part of Tripura’s agricultural economy.
Thousands of farmers in different districts depend on horticulture activities for livelihood and income generation.
The Queen pineapple variety from Tripura enjoys strong demand because of its distinctive taste and aroma.
Experts believe the fruit sector can become a major driver of rural economic growth if supported by better infrastructure and market access.
Officials said Mission Queen Pineapple aims to create a complete ecosystem that links farmers with markets, exporters, processors, and consumers.
The government also hopes the initiative will attract investment in agro-processing industries and rural enterprises.
Northeast Agriculture Receives Greater Attention
The launch of Mission Queen Pineapple reflects the growing focus on agricultural development in northeastern states.
The Centre has increasingly promoted horticulture, organic farming, and food processing initiatives in the region.
Officials said the Northeast possesses significant potential in fruit cultivation, spices, bamboo, and organic products.
Leaders believe improved connectivity, infrastructure, and investment can transform the region into a major agricultural hub.
The Tripura government has also intensified efforts to promote sustainable farming and export-oriented agriculture in recent years.
Government Confident About Long-Term Impact
Officials expressed confidence that the Rs 236 crore mission would strengthen Tripura’s agricultural economy and improve livelihoods for farmers.
The government expects the project to create employment opportunities in farming, transport, food processing, and export-related sectors.
Leaders also believe the initiative can increase Tripura’s visibility in global fruit markets and strengthen the state’s economic profile.
Scindia and Chief Minister Saha both stressed the importance of collaboration between the Centre, state government, farmers, and private stakeholders for successful implementation of the mission.
Authorities said detailed implementation plans and district-level activities under Mission Queen Pineapple would begin in phases across the state in the coming months.
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