Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has declared that the state has successfully doubled farmers’ income over the past eight years. Speaking at an agricultural development review meeting in Agartala, the CM said the state’s progress closely aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of boosting farmer earnings nationwide.
He emphasized that the state government had undertaken a multi-pronged approach to improve income, productivity, and market linkage for farmers in both rural and tribal areas.
State schemes and central support key to progress
Dr. Saha credited the combined impact of flagship central schemes, including PM-KISAN, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and Soil Health Cards, along with state-level interventions for this significant milestone. He pointed out that state-run initiatives such as the Tripura Agro Diversification Project, Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to farmers, and infrastructure expansion under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) helped ensure sustainability in the farming sector.
“These results did not happen overnight,” said the Chief Minister. “From modern farming techniques to improved irrigation systems and training programs, our administration remained committed to our farmers.”
Doubling income: What the data shows
According to data shared by the Agriculture Department, the average annual income of farmers in Tripura rose from ₹60,000 in 2017 to ₹1.3 lakh in 2024. The department attributes the jump to:
- Widened crop diversity
- Improved market access
- Use of organic and climate-resilient methods
- Support for horticulture and livestock rearing
Officials noted that income growth was particularly evident in West Tripura, Gomati, and Dhalai districts. Organic pineapple exports and enhanced rubber production were named as key contributors.
Push for self-reliant agriculture
The CM underlined the role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and self-help groups in empowering farmers with real-time information and training. Several KVKs, including the award-winning Dhalai KVK, helped disseminate scientific techniques, biofertilizer use, and post-harvest management tips.
Dr. Saha stressed that “Atmanirbhar Krishi” (self-reliant farming) is no longer a slogan, but a field reality in Tripura.
“We have made significant strides in using agri-tech, solar irrigation, and value-added processing,” he noted.
Role of women and tribal farmers
The state government also focused on uplifting women farmers and farmers in indigenous tribal regions. Schemes tailored for these groups included seed banks, poultry farming subsidies, and skill-building workshops. In partnership with the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), the state reached hundreds of tribal hamlets with crop insurance and organic farming kits.
“Women-led SHGs have become key stakeholders in our agri-growth model,” said a senior agriculture officer.
Call for collaboration and innovation
Dr. Saha urged farmers to adopt innovative tools and digital platforms for market access and weather alerts. He encouraged collaboration with agri-startups, drone operators, and marketing agencies to improve outreach and profit margins.
“Tripura’s success is a model for other northeastern states,” he said. “Now is the time to scale up efforts and become a hub of organic and sustainable agriculture.”
The CM also called for public-private partnerships to promote processing units, warehousing, and export-oriented farming.
Future roadmap
The Chief Minister announced a new State Agri Business Plan 2025–2030 that would focus on:
- Post-harvest infrastructure
- Cold storage chains
- Agri-tourism promotion
- Youth entrepreneurship in farming
He also hinted at expanded cooperation with AIIMS Agartala and NABARD for farmer health schemes and credit support.
Read more on Dhalai KVK’s National Award for Excellence
Visit pmkisan.gov.in to learn more about the PM-KISAN scheme
