Tripura has launched an experimental hydroponics farming initiative at the Horticulture Research Complex, aiming for sustainable, soilless agriculture. As part of the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’, over 1.95 lakh farmers participated in awareness programs.
The Tripura government has launched an experimental initiative in soilless hydroponic farming, Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced on Friday. This pilot project marks a transformative shift in farming techniques within the state, embracing sustainable, controlled-environment agriculture.
The initiative has been launched at the Horticulture Research Complex in Nagicherra, located in West Tripura District. Hydroponics—a method of growing plants without soil, using a nutrient-rich water solution—has been globally recognized as a revolutionary urban farming technique. It allows cultivation in controlled conditions, minimizes water usage, and is largely free from soil-borne diseases, making it highly efficient and sustainable.
“After finding its success, we would execute the hydroponics farming in different parts of the state,” Minister Nath told the media.
Hydroponics: A Modern Farming Revolution
An official from the Horticulture Research Complex explained that hydroponics is well-suited for both small-scale urban gardening and large-scale commercial production, especially for leafy vegetables. Typically, 8 to 10 varieties of leafy greens can be cultivated using this method. Given the controlled environment and reduced dependency on natural weather conditions, hydroponics offers a promising solution for regions with challenging soil quality or erratic rainfall.
Part of the Nationwide ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’
The hydroponics initiative is part of a broader agricultural modernization effort under the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’, a 15-day nationwide campaign aimed at transforming Indian agriculture. The campaign ran from May 29 to June 12, during which 873 meetings and gatherings were held across Tripura’s eight districts, with over 1.95 lakh farmers participating, despite challenges posed by inclement weather and heavy rainfall.
This campaign aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India self-reliant in agriculture, and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan’s push for pre-Kharif season awareness and preparedness.
Focus on Region-Specific Agricultural Solutions
Minister Nath emphasized that the campaign, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), aimed at educating farmers about research-based agricultural practices tailored to their region’s specific soil type, climate, and crop potential.
“Many farmers don’t know which crop is suitable for their land and how to cultivate it in the tropical and monsoon-heavy climate of Tripura. The slogan of this campaign is ‘Lab to Land’ to bridge this knowledge gap,” Nath said.
Agricultural scientists provided hands-on training and technical know-how to farmers, while also gathering feedback on their challenges. This information will be crucial in guiding future agricultural policies and research directions in the state.
Progress Towards Food Self-Sufficiency
The minister shared encouraging statistics about the state’s progress in agriculture. Out of Tripura’s eight districts, three districts—Sepahijala, South Tripura, and Gomati—are already self-sufficient in food grain production. Moreover, 30 out of 58 blocks in the state have achieved self-reliance in agricultural output.
Further reflecting the positive impact of policy and innovation, the average monthly income of farmers in Tripura has doubled, rising from Rs 6,580 to Rs 13,590 in recent years. Tripura has a total of 4.74 lakh farmers, and the government is actively promoting the use of drones and modern agricultural technologies to boost productivity and sustainability.
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Farmers as ‘Annadata’ – Guardians of India’s Food Security
Ratan Lal Nath praised the farmers, calling them “Annadata”—the providers of food and nutrients. Drawing a parallel with the armed forces who defend the nation’s borders, he said farmers are equally vital as they safeguard the country’s food security.
The introduction of hydroponic farming is not only a technological leap but a symbolic one, showcasing Tripura’s commitment to leading in sustainable, high-tech agriculture. With continued support and strategic planning, Tripura aims to be fully self-sufficient in food grain production in the coming years.
