Tripura Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath promotes rambutan, avocado, and exotic fruit farming to boost the state’s agri-economy. With successful trials at Nagicherra Horticulture Station, crops like rambutan, mangosteen, and avocado show strong potential to enhance farmer incomes and diversify agriculture in Tripura.
Tripura is taking bold steps towards diversifying its agriculture with the introduction of exotic fruit cultivation. Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath recently visited the Horticulture Research Station at Nagicherra, where he planted mangosteen saplings and reviewed experimental cultivation of rambutan, a tropical fruit being grown for the first time in the state.
During the visit, the Minister highlighted the potential of rambutan, describing it as more delicious than lychee and highly profitable for farmers. Rambutan had initially been grown only in an experimental capacity at the Nagicherra station, but according to Nath, the results have been very promising. The Agriculture Department now plans to take necessary steps to expand rambutan cultivation across Tripura, ensuring more farmers can benefit from this high-value crop.
Rambutan Shows Promise in Tripura
Minister Nath explained that before introducing any crop on a large scale, it is first tested at Nagicherra to determine its adaptability to local climate, soil, and agronomic conditions. Only if it thrives in these trials is it encouraged for widespread farming. He revealed that two varieties of rambutan—yellow and red—have been successfully introduced, both of which bear fruit between July and September. Given its taste and profitability, rambutan could soon emerge as a key player in Tripura’s fruit market.
Mangosteen as a Symbol of Hope
During the same visit, the Minister planted mangosteen saplings sourced from Karnataka. Often referred to as the “queen of fruits,” mangosteen has high nutritional and market value. Nath described the plantation as a symbol of hope, expressing optimism that mangosteen farming could also flourish in Tripura’s climate. He noted that large-scale cultivation will depend on the initial results of this trial phase.
In his own words, he emphasized that the planting was not merely symbolic but a step towards opening a new horizon in agriculture. He also announced that the Agriculture Department is launching potato cultivation across 2,337 kanis of land using advanced ARC methods, reflecting the state’s broader vision for self-reliance in agriculture.
Avocado Success Story in Tripura
Tripura is already witnessing success with another exotic fruit—avocado. Minister Nath shared that avocado farming has expanded to nearly 26 hectares in the state. Known for its high nutritional value and global demand, avocado fetches Rs 800 to Rs 1,000 per kilogram in the market, making it an extremely lucrative option for farmers.
“Just four years ago, this fruit was unknown in our state. Today, many farmers are benefiting from its cultivation,” Nath said. He further added that avocado trees yield fruit for 15 to 20 years, ensuring long-term income security for cultivators.
Future Plans: Kiwi, Blueberry & Blackberry
Looking ahead, Minister Nath revealed that the government is also exploring the feasibility of cultivating kiwi, blueberry, and blackberry at the Nagicherra research station. If successful, these fruits could add even greater variety to Tripura’s agricultural portfolio, boosting both farmer incomes and the state’s reputation as a hub for horticulture innovation.
The Minister reiterated that these initiatives are not just about introducing new crops, but about building a self-reliant agricultural economy where farmers can prosper. “Our commitment is that farmers become self-sufficient, and agriculture becomes the pride of the state,” Nath affirmed.
A New Horizon for Tripura’s Farmers
The combination of scientific research, experimental farming, and market-oriented crop strategies is transforming Tripura’s agriculture. By introducing exotic fruits such as rambutan, avocado, and mangosteen, alongside staple crops like potatoes, the government is paving the way for a diverse, profitable, and sustainable agricultural sector.
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As these fruits gain traction among local farmers and consumers, Tripura could soon emerge as a model state for innovative farming practices in the Northeast. With global demand for exotic fruits growing, the initiatives led by Minister Ratan Lal Nath may help Tripura farmers tap into new markets and secure lasting prosperity.
