In a major push to strengthen the agarwood sector, the Tripura government has announced the development of an integrated agarwood cluster worth ₹27.42 crore. The project will come up under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) scheme. Through this initiative, the state aims to enhance production, improve value addition, and generate large-scale employment.
The cluster will include nurseries, plantations, distillation units, and dedicated training centres. As a result, more than 7,000 people are expected to benefit directly from the project.
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Announcement Made at International Agarwood Conclave
The government announced the project during the fifth International Agarwood Conclave and Buyer-Seller Meet held at Pragya Bhavan in Agartala on Thursday. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha addressed the gathering and highlighted Tripura’s historic link with agarwood.
According to him, Agartala derives its name from the agar tree, which once grew widely across the region. He also recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had shown keen interest in agarwood cultivation during his visits to the state. Therefore, the government considers agarwood a key sector for Tripura’s economic growth.
Northeast Plays Key Role in Agarwood Production
Speaking further, Dr. Saha stressed the importance of the Northeast in India’s agarwood ecosystem. He pointed out that nearly 96 percent of the country’s agar trees are found in the region. Moreover, Tripura has already emerged as the second-largest agarwood-producing state in India.
At present, the state has nearly 1.5 crore agar trees. This vast resource offers strong potential for exports and value-added manufacturing. Consequently, the government has prioritised infrastructure development for the sector.
Agarwood Market in Dharmanagar Nears Completion
To support farmers and traders, the state is constructing a dedicated agarwood market at Kadamtala in Dharmanagar. Dr. Saha confirmed that the project is nearing completion. Once operational, the market will enable direct interaction between buyers and sellers.
This facility will help ensure fair pricing, reduce middlemen, and improve transparency in trade. As a result, agar farmers are expected to gain better returns for their produce.
Trade and Research Centre to Strengthen Exports
In addition, the Chief Minister announced the establishment of a ₹15-crore Agar International Trade and Research Centre under the North Eastern Council. The centre will focus on scientific research, quality assessment, and global trade facilitation.
The government also plans to launch a single-window online platform for agarwood exports. It is being developed in coordination with the central government. This digital system will simplify export procedures and reduce delays, thereby encouraging international trade.
Government Invites Investment and Participation
Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma, who attended the conclave as a special guest, highlighted Tripura’s favourable climate for agarwood cultivation. He urged farmers to adopt scientific practices and modern techniques. At the same time, he called for wider public participation to scale up production.
He assured that the government would provide comprehensive support to build a strong agarwood industry. Furthermore, he invited investors from outside the state to explore opportunities in agar-based manufacturing and value-added products.
Dignitaries Attend, Exhibition Showcases Potential
Several senior officials and industry representatives attended the conclave. These included DG Sribharani from the Department of Commerce and Industry, Joint Secretary of NERAMEK Anshuman Dey, PCCF RK Shyamal, and officials from the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Ishantar Shobhapandit of the Indian Chamber of Commerce delivered the vote of thanks.
The event concluded with a visit to exhibition stalls showcasing a wide range of agar-based products. These displays reflected the growing commercial potential of Tripura’s agarwood sector and reinforced its importance in the Northeast’s economic landscape.
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