Tripura Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Tuesday urged the Centre to increase financial allocations for farmer-focused schemes in the state. He also sought approval for large-scale hybrid paddy cultivation in the next financial year.
The Minister raised these demands during a financial review meeting of centrally sponsored schemes conducted via video conference. Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Agriculture Minister, chaired the meeting. Officials reviewed the implementation and expenditure performance of 18 states, including Tripura.
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Strong Fund Utilisation Performance
During the meeting, the Union Minister appreciated Tripura’s financial discipline and spending efficiency. Nath highlighted that the state has already utilised nearly 79 per cent of the funds received under the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) Umbrella Scheme.
Additionally, Tripura utilised around 61 per cent of allocations under the Krishi Utpada Yojana Umbrella Scheme. The state has also spent 61 per cent of funds under the Natural Farming project.
According to Nath, Tripura ranks among the top five states in the country in terms of expenditure efficiency. He further stated that the government aims to fully utilise the current allocation within the financial year. Therefore, he requested additional funding to expand ongoing and proposed agricultural initiatives.
Push for Farm Mechanisation and Hybrid Paddy
The Minister stressed the importance of modernising agriculture to increase productivity. He demanded an additional Rs 20 crore under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM). This funding will help farmers access advanced equipment and reduce labour dependency.
Moreover, Nath requested the Centre’s approval to bring 30,000 hectares under hybrid paddy cultivation through the RKVY-DPR project in 2026–27. He said hybrid paddy will boost crop yield, strengthen food security, and enhance farmers’ incomes.
Focus on Farm IDs and Tribal Farmers
The Minister informed that Tripura has begun issuing Farm IDs to farmers. However, he highlighted that more than 1.25 lakh tribal farmers in the state hold land titles under the Forest Rights Act (RoFR pattas). He urged the Centre to ensure their smooth inclusion in the Farm ID framework.
By integrating these farmers, the state aims to improve access to subsidies, crop insurance, and welfare schemes.
Demand for Higher Allocation Under NFSM
Paddy cultivation covers nearly 50 per cent of Tripura’s agricultural land. Therefore, Nath sought higher cost allocations under the National Food Security Mission (NFSM). He emphasised that enhanced funding will help secure food production and improve farmer welfare.
He also pointed out that around 96 per cent of Tripura’s farmers fall under the small and marginal category. Consequently, he requested a revision of existing cost norms under schemes such as RKVY, NFSM, and the National Mission on Oil Palm. According to him, updated cost structures will better reflect ground realities and rising input expenses.
Centre Assures Support
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan acknowledged the legitimacy of Tripura’s demands. He assured the state government that the Centre will take necessary steps to sanction additional funds at the earliest.
The review meeting also saw the participation of senior officials, including Agriculture Department Secretary Apurba Roy and Director Dr. Phanibhushan Jamatia.
Overall, Tripura’s proactive approach to fund utilisation and agricultural reforms reflects its commitment to farmer welfare. With additional central assistance, the state aims to enhance productivity, strengthen food security, and support its predominantly small and marginal farming community.