Agartala, Tripura – The Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare Department of Tripura has launched initiatives to cultivate exotic fruits such as mangosteen, rambutan, and avocado, aiming to increase farmers’ income and diversify agricultural production in the state.
Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath stated that these efforts are currently being tested at the Nagicherra Horticulture Research Centre, with plans to expand successful cultivation to farmers across Tripura.
“Exotic fruits like mangosteen and avocado have high market value. Avocado, in particular, is beneficial for individuals with diabetes. These fruits were not previously grown in Tripura, but now we have initiated their cultivation. We brought two mangosteen saplings from Karnataka and planted them here. Additionally, we are planning to introduce kiwi, blueberry, and blackberry,” said Minister Nath.
The Minister highlighted that rambutan cultivation, available in red and yellow varieties, has also begun as seasonal fruit trials. The initial cultivation at Nagicherra Research Centre is designed to assess how well these fruits adapt to Tripura’s climate before encouraging farmers to grow them on a larger scale.
Currently, Tripura has 46 hectares dedicated to avocado cultivation, reflecting a growing interest in high-value fruit crops that can provide better returns for farmers.
Potato Cultivation and Seed Production
Minister Nath also focused on potato cultivation, stating that 23,746 farmers in Tripura grow potatoes on 7,622 hectares. Potatoes remain in high demand both within the state and in other regions. Previously, farmers sourced seeds from Maharajganj Bazar in Agartala, as well as from West Bengal and Punjab. Another source was the True Potato Seed provided by Nagicherra Research Centre, which was expensive and limited.
To address this, the department has introduced a new seed production process through the Agriculture Research Centre (ARC). Starting in 2023–24, 36 kani of land was used to produce potato seeds, which were distributed to farmers. In 2024–25, 410 farmers received seeds for 128 kani of land, and for the current year, the department aims to supply seeds for 2,087 kani of land, with 250 kani earmarked for organic potato cultivation.
“Our goal is to achieve self-reliance in potato seed production by 2028–29,” said Minister Nath, emphasizing the importance of local seed availability in boosting production and reducing costs for farmers.
Support for Betel Nut Farmers
The Minister also announced relief measures for betel nut farmers in Jampui Hills whose plantations were damaged. The government has provided 40 battery-operated spray machines, along with pesticides and other essential agricultural inputs, to support farmers in restoring and maintaining their crops.
Boosting Farmer Income and Sustainable Agriculture
Through these initiatives, Tripura aims to diversify agricultural production, increase farmers’ income, and promote sustainable farming practices. Exotic fruit cultivation, coupled with improved seed availability for staple crops like potatoes, is expected to strengthen the state’s agricultural sector while reducing dependence on external suppliers.
Minister Nath concluded by stating that the department will continue exploring innovative agricultural solutions, including high-value fruit crops and modern farming techniques, to ensure farmers in Tripura can benefit from both domestic and national markets.