Agartala | Nov 27,2025 | SKY LINK TIMES
Tripura’s Big Push for Orange Cultivation:
The Tripura government has launched a major initiative to widely expand orange cultivation and strengthen floriculture across the state, especially in mountainous regions, aiming to increase agricultural productivity and improve farmers’ income. The announcement was made by Agriculture, Horticulture and Soil Conservation Minister Ratan Lal Nath while inaugurating the State-Level Orange Festival 2025 at the Badharghat Progeny Orchard near Agartala on Thursday.
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Agriculture at the Center of Tripura’s Growth Strategy
Speaking at the event, Nath emphasized that agriculture remains the backbone of the state and the nation, contributing approximately 46% of GDP, while sectors like tourism and services make up the remainder. He highlighted that farmers are returning to agriculture with renewed confidence, supported by multiple government-led development projects.
According to Nath, the Department of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, following expert recommendations, is working to expand orange cultivation into new areas including Baramura in West Tripura, Khowai, Gomati districts, and Sakhang Hills of Dhalai district. Currently, oranges are produced in regions such as Jirania, Jampui Hills, Sakhang, and Killa, where farmers have seen encouraging market demand—one farmer from Jirania reportedly sells home-grown Malta oranges at ₹100 per piece.
Significant Increase in Cultivated Area and Production
The Minister revealed that Tripura presently has 3,846 hectares under orange cultivation, generating 16,538 metric tonnes of oranges annually, with an average yield of 4,300 kg per hectare.
Between 2018–19 and 2025–26, the state introduced 353 hectares of new cultivation area, including 80 hectares added in 2025. During the same period, 228 hectares of old orchards were revived, with revival costs of ₹2,000 per hectare. Of this, 31 hectares were revived this year alone.
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Govt Initiatives: From Citrus to Floriculture
Nath highlighted that the government is committed to ensuring employment opportunities in every household, citing examples like:
Introduction of onion cultivation in Tripura through scientific trials
Production of Apical Rooted Cutting (ARC) potato, now in high demand among farmers
Development of a year-round flower garden in an area previously covered by dense forest
He emphasized that after the BJP government took charge, efforts were intensified to create sustainable income opportunities and provide technological guidance to farming communities.
Orange Festival Encourages Farmer Participation
This year’s State Orange Festival, held in Badharghat, hosted over 100 orange farmers, showcasing high-quality citrus produce and innovations in horticulture. Previously, the festival was organized twice in Killa (Gomati district).
“We want to support farmers in every way possible. Our main aim is to empower them,” Nath stated.
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