A Union minister on Friday launched a ₹80 crore Tripura agarwood development project, marking a major push to strengthen cultivation, value addition, and livelihood generation linked to one of the state’s most valuable forest-based resources. The project aims to transform agarwood into a sustainable economic driver while supporting farmers and local entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the launch event, the minister said agarwood holds immense commercial and export potential. He added that structured investment and scientific practices can help Tripura emerge as a leading hub for agarwood production and processing.
The Tripura agarwood development project reflects the Centre’s focus on promoting high-value crops and supporting rural economies through targeted interventions.
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Project aims to boost agarwood cultivation
The Tripura agarwood development project focuses on expanding agarwood cultivation across suitable areas of the state. Officials said the initiative will encourage plantation-based cultivation to reduce pressure on natural forests.
Farmers will receive technical guidance on scientific planting and maintenance. This support aims to improve survival rates and long-term productivity.
The minister said agarwood cultivation offers steady income opportunities. With proper management, plantations can generate returns over several years.
Focus on value addition and processing
A key component of the Tripura agarwood development project is value addition. Officials said the project will support processing units that produce agar oil, incense, and other high-value products.
Value addition increases earnings compared to raw material sales. The minister said local processing will help retain economic benefits within the state.
The project also aims to promote small and medium enterprises. These units can generate employment and strengthen local supply chains.
Support for farmers and rural livelihoods
The Union minister said the project will directly benefit farmers, especially in rural and forest-adjacent areas. Agarwood cultivation fits well with agroforestry practices.
Farmers can integrate agarwood with other crops. This approach diversifies income and reduces financial risk.
The Tripura agarwood development project also includes training programmes. These sessions will cover cultivation techniques, disease management, and harvesting methods.
Strengthening Tripura’s agar industry
Tripura already has a strong association with agarwood. The new project seeks to consolidate this position through organised development.
Officials said improved regulation and scientific methods will improve quality and market access. Buyers often seek consistency and certification.
The Tripura agarwood development project aligns with national efforts to promote sustainable use of forest resources while enhancing farmer income.
Sustainability and environmental safeguards
The minister stressed the importance of sustainability. Agarwood extraction, if unregulated, can harm ecosystems.
The project promotes plantation-based cultivation rather than forest extraction. Officials said this model protects biodiversity while ensuring supply.
Environmental safeguards form an integral part of the Tripura agarwood development project. Monitoring mechanisms will ensure compliance with norms.
Market access and export potential
Agarwood and its derivatives have strong demand in international markets. The minister said Tripura has the potential to tap this demand more effectively.
The project will help link producers with domestic and global buyers. Improved market access can enhance price realisation.
The Tripura agarwood development project also supports branding and quality assurance. These factors remain critical for export competitiveness.
Capacity building and skill development
Skill development remains central to the project. Officials said workers will receive training in cultivation, processing, and quality control.
The minister said skill-building enhances productivity and product quality. It also creates opportunities for youth and women.
The Tripura agarwood development project aims to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting the industry’s growth.
Centre-state collaboration highlighted
The launch highlighted strong Centre-state coordination. Officials from both governments are working together on implementation and monitoring.
The minister praised the Tripura government for proactive engagement. He said cooperation helps resolve challenges and accelerate progress.
The Tripura agarwood development project reflects cooperative federalism in action.
Employment generation and economic impact
Officials said the project will create jobs at various stages. Cultivation, processing, logistics, and marketing all require manpower.
Local communities are expected to benefit from new income opportunities. Reduced migration remains an important social outcome.
The Tripura agarwood development project contributes to broader rural development goals.
Industry stakeholders welcome initiative
Agarwood growers and traders welcomed the launch. Many said the project provides long-awaited support and clarity.
Stakeholders believe structured investment will attract new participants. Improved policy backing boosts confidence.
The Tripura agarwood development project has generated optimism across the sector.
Way forward
The Union minister said implementation will proceed in phases. Regular reviews will track progress and address challenges.
He expressed confidence that the project will transform the agarwood sector in Tripura. With ₹80 crore investment, the scale of impact remains significant.
The Tripura agarwood development project marks a decisive step toward sustainable agriculture, rural prosperity, and export-led growth. By combining cultivation, value addition, and skill development, the initiative aims to unlock the full potential of agarwood and position Tripura as a key player in the national and global agar industry.
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