Tripura’s Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced that Tripura will support 6,000 farmers under the ARC (Aeroponic Rooted Cutting) potato cultivation scheme. The initiative aims to increase potato production, strengthen self-reliance, and improve farmer income across the state.
Speaking at the Secretariat on November 6, Minister Nath said the government will spend Rs 1.8 crore to assist farmers this year. Each farmer will receive Rs 2,000 in direct financial aid along with materials worth Rs 1,000. He stated that the funds will be directly transferred to bank accounts to ensure transparency and quick delivery.
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According to Nath, the initiative reflects the government’s dedication to agricultural innovation and rural progress. It will not only help boost potato yield but also encourage the use of scientific methods in farming.
ARC Method to Boost Productivity
Explaining the scheme, Ratan Lal Nath said the ARC (Aeroponic Rooted Cutting) method allows potato cultivation with better efficiency and fewer resources. The process uses nutrient-rich mist and minimal soil, which helps produce healthier and more disease-resistant plants.
He mentioned that this technology will help farmers grow more potatoes using less land and water. Therefore, it fits well with Tripura’s geography and supports sustainable farming practices. The state government plans to conduct awareness campaigns to train farmers in adopting this advanced cultivation method.
The Agriculture Minister said Tripura’s goal is to reduce dependency on potato imports from other states. By introducing ARC technology, the government hopes to make the state self-sufficient in potato production within a few years.
Tripura to Support 6,000 Farmers Through Direct Benefit
Nath confirmed that Tripura to support 6,000 farmers directly through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. He said this approach will eliminate middlemen and ensure full benefits reach every registered farmer.
Each beneficiary will receive Rs 2,000 directly in their accounts. In addition, they will get materials worth Rs 1,000 to start potato cultivation under the ARC model. He said this dual form of assistance will empower farmers to invest in quality seeds, fertilizers, and essential tools.
Moreover, Nath stressed that this initiative will create confidence among small and marginal farmers. He said many farmers hesitate to try new methods due to financial constraints, but the government’s support will help them experiment and succeed.
Ratan Lal Nath on Tripura’s Agricultural Vision
Highlighting the government’s long-term vision, Nath said Tripura to support 6,000 farmers marks only the beginning of a broader agricultural transformation. The government aims to double farmer income through innovation, skill training, and sustainable resource use.
He said Tripura currently imports a large portion of its potato supply. However, with new technologies like ARC, the state can soon become self-reliant. The Agriculture Minister added that the project aligns with the government’s broader mission of “Atmanirbhar Tripura,” focusing on food security and farmer welfare.
He further mentioned that Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has given special attention to rural development. The administration’s continuous efforts are directed toward modernizing farming, promoting self-employment, and improving farmers’ livelihoods.
Training and Awareness for Farmers
To ensure effective implementation, Nath announced that the Agriculture Department will conduct workshops and field demonstrations across districts. These sessions will train farmers to use the ARC method correctly and efficiently.
He said agricultural officers will provide on-field guidance and monitor the results closely. By maintaining regular communication, the department will help farmers overcome challenges during cultivation. Nath said such direct involvement will make the scheme more successful and improve yield outcomes.
He also pointed out that many young farmers are showing interest in agriculture again. With financial aid and scientific support, they now see farming as a profitable career option. The government hopes to attract more youth into modern farming practices through such schemes.
Economic and Social Benefits for Farmers
Nath said that Tripura to support 6,000 farmers under the ARC potato cultivation scheme will have long-term economic benefits. Increased productivity will reduce imports, improve local supply, and enhance income stability for rural households.
He added that by saving costs and producing high-quality potatoes, farmers can earn better prices in the market. The project will also contribute to job creation in related sectors such as storage, transport, and packaging.
According to him, this development will also boost the state’s rural economy. Better productivity will lead to more income circulation in villages, benefiting both farmers and local businesses.
Focus on Sustainable Agricultural Growth
Minister Nath said the government’s agricultural strategy is built on sustainability, innovation, and inclusiveness. The goal is not just to increase yield but to ensure that farming remains profitable and environmentally friendly.
He said that introducing ARC cultivation supports the government’s mission of adopting eco-friendly techniques. It uses minimal water, reduces fertilizer use, and helps conserve soil quality. Nath emphasized that protecting natural resources while promoting modern practices will define the future of farming in Tripura.
Furthermore, he said that expanding cold storage and distribution facilities is another key government focus. These facilities will help farmers preserve their produce longer and reduce post-harvest losses.
Tripura’s Commitment to Farmer Welfare
Concluding his address, Ratan Lal Nath said that Tripura to support 6,000 farmers underlines the government’s deep commitment to farmer welfare. He said that schemes like the ARC potato project will encourage innovation while safeguarding traditional agricultural values.
He also assured that the Agriculture Department will continue introducing new initiatives to promote diversification and sustainability in farming. “Our aim is to make every farmer in Tripura confident, self-reliant, and economically secure,” Nath said.
With initiatives like this, Tripura is moving steadily toward self-sufficiency and agricultural excellence. The combined impact of government support, scientific methods, and farmer participation will transform the state’s agricultural landscape in the years ahead.
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