Tripura government is in talks to set up a bamboo-based ethanol plant as Chief Minister Manik Saha announces Rs. 3,800 crore investment MoUs, renewable energy initiatives, data centre plans, and industrial growth at the Tripura Industries and Commerce Fair.
The Tripura government is in advanced discussions with a leading business group to establish a bamboo-based ethanol plant in the state, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said on Thursday. The proposed project is expected to boost industrial growth, promote sustainable energy, and create employment opportunities while leveraging Tripura’s abundant natural resources.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the 36th Tripura Industries and Commerce Fair at the Hapania International Fair Ground, the Chief Minister said the state is actively pursuing investment-driven development by tapping its unique ecological and agricultural strengths. He revealed that Tripura signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth nearly Rs. 3,800 crore following the recently held Business Conclave, reflecting growing investor confidence in the state.
Dr. Saha highlighted that Tripura possesses immense industrial potential through resources such as bamboo, cane, pineapple, agarwood, and rubber, which can serve as the backbone for a diversified and sustainable industrial ecosystem. He pointed out that industries worth approximately Rs. 2,000 crore could be developed solely around agarwood, underlining the scope for high-value, forest-based industries.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the bamboo-based ethanol plant aligns with national priorities for renewable energy, biofuel production, and environmental sustainability. Bamboo, being a fast-growing and eco-friendly resource, offers a viable alternative feedstock for ethanol, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and energy security.
Organised by the Industries and Commerce Department, the trade fair will continue until February 12 and features a wide array of industrial, commercial, and entrepreneurial exhibits. During the inaugural event, several investing companies were felicitated with mementoes by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries in recognition of their contribution to Tripura’s economic development.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Saha described industry and commerce as the backbone of any economy, asserting that Tripura has witnessed a significant increase in investments under the present government. He alleged that during previous regimes, multiple industrial units were damaged or destroyed during political movements, which delayed the state’s progress towards self-reliance and economic stability.
Referring to the emerging era of Artificial Intelligence, 5G connectivity, and data-driven governance, the Chief Minister said that data infrastructure has become indispensable for modern development. In a major announcement, he stated that Airtel will establish the first data centre in the North Eastern region in Tripura, with work commencing on Thursday. The project is expected to enhance digital infrastructure and attract technology-based investments.
Dr. Saha further noted that the government has simplified old industrial policies, introduced investor-friendly incentives, strengthened skill development programmes, and created robust investor engagement platforms through regular business conclaves. These measures, he said, have played a crucial role in improving the state’s ease of doing business.
The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of women’s economic empowerment, revealing that Self-Help Group (SHG) members in Tripura have received Rs. 700 crore as revolving funds and Rs. 1,000 crore in bank loans. These initiatives have helped create approximately 1.08 lakh “Lakhpati Didis”, significantly improving household incomes and grassroots entrepreneurship.
Industries and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma said the fair features 580 stalls, with participants from within the state, other parts of India, and abroad. She added that free stalls have been allotted to select SHGs and non-governmental organisations to encourage inclusive growth. Industries Secretary Kiran Gitte stated that investments have risen substantially over the past three to four years due to consistent policy reforms and investor-friendly governance.
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Among those present at the event were Assembly Deputy Speaker Ramprasad Pal, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma, Agartala Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder, MLA Minarani Sarkar, West Tripura Zilla Sabhadhipati Biswajit Shil, and TIDC Chairman Nabadal Banik.
