Tripura witnesses rapid MSME growth with over 94,000 registrations as Industry Minister Santana Chakma announces Tea Auction Centre launch and major CNG expansion, boosting employment, infrastructure, and economic development across the state.
In a strong push toward economic growth and industrial expansion, Tripura’s Industry and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma on Thursday highlighted significant achievements in the state’s MSME sector, alongside key infrastructure developments, during the ongoing Assembly session.
Responding to queries raised by legislators Sudip Roy Barman and Nirmal Biswas, the minister presented data showcasing a remarkable surge in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) registrations over the past three years. According to Chakma, a total of 94,460 MSME units have been registered across Tripura, reflecting a steady upward trend in entrepreneurial activity.
Breaking down the figures, the minister informed that 28,931 MSME units were registered in 2023, followed by 28,797 in 2024, and a significant jump to 36,732 units in 2025. This growth trajectory, she noted, signals increasing investor confidence and improved ease of doing business in the state.
The minister further revealed that as of January 31, 2026, around 43 registered industrial establishments have collectively generated employment opportunities for approximately 2,825 individuals. She emphasized that these developments are contributing to local job creation and strengthening the state’s economic base.
In a major boost to the tea industry, Chakma announced that the government is preparing to launch the Agartala Tea Auction Centre. The facility will be housed in the renovated office building of the Industry and Commerce Department located at PN Complex in Gurkhabasti, Agartala. She confirmed that licensing, registration, and other necessary formalities are currently underway in coordination with the Indian Tea Board.
“The Tea Auction Centre is expected to start operations soon and will play a crucial role in strengthening Tripura’s tea economy,” the minister said. The initiative is anticipated to provide local tea growers with better market access, transparent pricing, and enhanced revenue opportunities, thereby positioning Tripura as a competitive player in India’s tea industry.
On the infrastructure front, Chakma highlighted the rapid expansion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) facilities across the state. She stated that in the last three financial years, Tripura Natural Gas Company Limited and North East Gas Distribution Company Limited have jointly established 12 new CNG stations, improving access to cleaner and more sustainable fuel options.
Looking ahead, the minister announced plans for further expansion within the current financial year. TNGCL is set to commission four new CNG stations in Khumulwng, Banduar, Kakraban, and Hataikatar Champaknagar. Meanwhile, NEGDCL will develop four additional Daughter Booster Stations (DBS), including two each in Khowai and Sepahijala districts.
Currently, Tripura has a total of 34 operational CNG stations. These are distributed across key regions, with 15 stations in West Tripura, 9 in Gomati, 6 in Sepahijala, and 4 in Khowai. The expansion of this network is expected to promote eco-friendly transportation and reduce dependence on conventional fuels.
Chakma underscored that the combined progress in MSME growth, tea sector development, and energy infrastructure reflects the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic development. “Our focus remains on creating employment, enhancing industrial capacity, and ensuring sustainable growth across all sectors,” she stated.
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The minister concluded by assuring the Assembly that Tripura is steadily advancing toward self-reliance, supported by policy-driven initiatives and infrastructure investments. With a strong foundation in MSMEs and strategic projects like the Tea Auction Centre and CNG expansion, the state is poised for a new phase of economic transformation.
