The College of Agriculture, Tripura, in collaboration with NABARD, organised a one-day Field Day and Training Programme on 29 November 2025. The event focused on the value addition of Nendran banana. Moreover, it aimed to strengthen farmers’ knowledge of cultivation, pest control, and small-scale processing.
The programme was held under the NABARD-supported project Promotion and Popularization of Nendran Banana through Mass Production, Field Demonstration and Hands-on Training of Chips Making for Entrepreneurship Development in Tripura. Through this initiative, the organisers hope to boost production and create new livelihood opportunities for rural communities.
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Highlighting the Crop’s Business Potential
The event began with an introductory session on the importance of Nendran banana. Speakers explained how the crop can support income growth and help farmers start agri-based businesses. Additionally, they highlighted the rising demand for Nendran banana and its value-added products in Tripura.
Following the introduction, participants joined a field visit to observe cultivation practices. After the visit, Prof. Debashish Sen delivered a detailed lecture on the business scope of Nendran banana. He discussed market trends, consumer preferences, and the growing opportunities for small-scale banana-based enterprises. Consequently, many participants expressed interest in exploring new business options.
Sessions on Pest and Disease Management
A major part of the programme focused on pest and disease management.
To begin with, Dr. Budhachandra Thangjam led a live pest identification session. He showed participants how to recognise major pests and explained effective management steps. Moreover, he stressed the importance of adopting scientific methods for long-term results.
Next, Dr. Niren Majumder discussed common diseases that affect Nendran banana. He suggested practical, climate-suited solutions and emphasised that early treatment can significantly reduce crop loss. Therefore, farmers gained a clearer understanding of preventive measures.
Practical Training in Banana Chips Making
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to value-addition training.
Dr. Thingreingam Irenaeus KS conducted a hands-on session on Nendran banana chips making. He demonstrated each part of the process, including selection, slicing, frying, hygiene practices, packaging, and storage. Additionally, he explained how proper packaging can extend the product’s shelf life.
Participants appreciated the practical approach. Many said the session helped them gain confidence in preparing market-ready chips. Later, freshly prepared chips were distributed to all attendees and dignitaries, which added a lively end to the training session.
Encouragement from NABARD
Shri Thyagarajan Subramanian, Assistant General Manager of NABARD, attended the programme. He praised the project’s progress and encouraged participants to adopt value-added activities as viable business ventures. Moreover, he reaffirmed NABARD’s support for future skill-development programmes.
A total of 35 farmers and rural entrepreneurs from West Tripura, Gomati, and Khowai districts took part in the valedictory session. Meanwhile, jawans from the CRPF Group Centre, Damdamia, also joined the programme and expressed interest in the training.
This initiative builds on earlier programmes held in regions such as Kakraban, Khowai, Sepahijala, and Agartala. Overall, with each training session, the effort to develop a strong Nendran banana-based rural entrepreneurship ecosystem in Tripura continues to grow.
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