18.7 MT of organic aromatic rice for European market
AGARTALA: Tripura government has made organic farming a key component in promoting rural prosperity with a significant milestone achieved by exporting 18.7 metric tonnes (MT) of organic products to the European market. State's Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath gave this information during a Sensitisation Programme on the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) held in Agartala Wednesday.
Minister Nath asserted the importance of this event in enhancing Tripura’s organic agriculture ecosystem and linking local farmers to global markets. He highlighted the state's favourable natural conditions—fertile soil, ample rainfall and rich biodiversity, which provide a strong foundation for organic farming.
For generations, farmers in Tripura have employed sustainable agricultural practices such as crop rotation, mixed farming and organic compost application, he commented.
The Minister stressed on need of effective use of natural pest management techniques, which include neem-based formulations and cow dung manure to maintain soil fertility and safeguard biodiversity. The successful integration of traditional agricultural methods with modern certification standards has allowed Tripura's farmers to ensure their produce meets international quality expectations.
He described organic farming as a vision for a healthier, more sustainable future, asserting that with the dedication of farmers and institutional support, Tripura is positioned to become a leading example of organic excellence within India and globally.
In recent years, Tripura has successfully exported a range of organic products both domestically and internationally, including aromatic rice varieties like Kalikhasa, ginger, scented lemon, bird’s eye chilli and the renowned GI-tagged Queen Pineapple reaching major Indian markets as well as countries such as Germany, Dubai, Oman, and Bangladesh.
The Minister announced the flagging off of 18.7 metric tonnes of organic aromatic rice (encompassing various kinds like Kalikhasa and black rice) to the European market through Pratithi Organic Foods Pvt Ltd.
Nath attributed this achievement to the hard work of farmers and growing global interest in Tripura's organic offerings stating that numerous farmers have embraced organic cultivation in products like aromatic and sticky rice, ginger, turmeric and various types of pineapples, supported by schemes such as MOVCDNER.
He further mentioned that under the current government, a total of 26,600 hectares are under organic cultivation with 14,411 hectares registered as organic, 2,002 hectares in the conversion phase and 10,189 hectares under evaluation. The formation of 53 Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) has helped collective strength and improved market connections.
Minister Nath reaffirmed the government's commitment to organic farming as a vital driver for rural development pledging continued support through targeted schemes, training, and certification for farmers to diversify into high-value, globally demanded crops.