Flower cultivation in Tripura’s Khowai district has transformed Shankar Shil into a successful entrepreneur, showcasing how floriculture, government support, and innovation can generate sustainable livelihoods, rural employment, and self-reliance for aspiring farmers and unemployed youth.
In an era when government employment remains the primary aspiration for many young people, Shankar Shil of Kalyanpur has carved a different and inspiring path. Emerging as one of the notable flower cultivators in Tripura’s Khowai district, Shil has demonstrated how floriculture can become a sustainable source of income and a model of self-reliance through entrepreneurship.
Shil began his journey nearly eight years ago, initially working in small-scale flower decoration for social functions, weddings, and religious ceremonies. During this early phase, he depended heavily on flowers sourced from outside markets. His association with Agartala-based flower trader Narayan Saha proved to be a turning point, as it provided him with valuable guidance and encouragement. However, rising transportation costs and fluctuating market prices significantly reduced his profit margins, compelling him to rethink his approach.
Recognizing the long-term potential of flower cultivation, Shil made a bold decision in 2017 to enter farming, despite not owning agricultural land. He leased plots in Kunjaban village and began cultivating flowers with limited financial resources and minimal technical knowledge. The initial years were challenging, marked by uncertainty in production, marketing, and weather-related risks. Yet, his determination and willingness to learn helped him overcome these hurdles.
Support from the Agriculture Department, Divyadaya Krishi Vigyan Kendra, and NABARD played a crucial role in shaping his success. Through structured training programs and exposure visits to major floriculture hubs in Delhi and Kolkata, Shil learned modern cultivation techniques, pest management practices, and market-oriented production strategies. These experiences enabled him to improve both quality and yield.
Further assistance from local representatives strengthened his initiative. Solar-powered systems were installed in his fields to ensure reliable irrigation, reducing dependency on conventional power sources and lowering operational costs. Government-backed schemes also provided access to essential resources, making his venture more resilient and environmentally sustainable.
Today, Shil cultivates a diverse range of flowers, including jasmine, tagar, tuberose, and marigold. His flowers are in high demand across Kalyanpur, Khowai, Teliamura, and Agartala, particularly for weddings, festivals, and institutional decorations. Although he does not operate a dedicated retail outlet, his produce is regularly supplied to traders, event organizers, and decorators.
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The floriculture venture has also created employment opportunities for others. Shil’s farm currently provides regular work to three to four laborers, contributing to the local rural economy. Encouraged by growing demand, he now plans to expand his cultivation area and venture into orchid farming in the near future.
Government officials who have visited his fields have acknowledged the success of his efforts. They noted that Shil’s journey highlights the potential of floriculture as a sustainable livelihood option and serves as a powerful example for unemployed youth seeking self-reliance through agriculture-based entrepreneurship.
