In a significant stride towards bolstering agricultural planning and achieving foodgrain self-sufficiency, the Tripura Agriculture Department has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Bureau of Soil Survey (NBSS), Nagpur. Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced this development on Tuesday, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s agricultural sector.
The MoU is set to facilitate scientific mapping and assessment of cultivable land using advanced geo-spatial techniques across three districts of Tripura. This initiative is poised to guide farmers towards crop-specific cultivation, leveraging soil characteristics to enhance overall productivity. By doing so, it aims to optimize land use and ensure that farmers can make informed decisions about what to grow, thereby improving their yields and economic returns.
Minister Nath, while inaugurating a workshop on “Land Resource Inventory of Tripura using Geo-Spatial Techniques” at Pragya Bhawan, underscored the importance of land assessment as the bedrock of agricultural self-reliance. He revealed that systematic research on soil layers, water levels, and crop suitability had been underway for the past three years. This long-term commitment to understanding the state’s agricultural landscape highlights the government’s dedication to fostering sustainable and productive farming practices.
The Minister detailed that comprehensive surveys had already been conducted in South and Gomati districts, with NBSS scientists submitting their findings. The newly signed MoU extends this critical work to North, Dhalai, and Unakoti districts. Subsequent surveys in West Tripura, Sepahijala, and Khowai districts are also on the horizon, ensuring a thorough and inclusive assessment of the state’s agricultural potential.
Scientific soil analysis is expected to pinpoint suitable areas for a variety of crops, including paddy, millet, rubber, and palm oil. This targeted approach will not only enhance planning but also promise higher returns for farmers, contributing to the overall economic development of the region. The Minister also pointed out that the number of foodgrain self-sufficient blocks in the state has risen from 22 to 30, with an additional five blocks anticipated to achieve self-sufficiency this year. This progress is a testament to the effectiveness of data-driven agricultural policies.
The event was graced by the presence of Agriculture Department Secretary Apurba Roy, Director Fani Bhushan Jamatia, and other senior officials, reflecting the collaborative effort and multi-stakeholder engagement essential for such initiatives. As Tripura embarks on this ambitious journey of agricultural transformation, the MoU with NBSS stands as a beacon of hope for farmers and a model for other states to emulate.