Tripura is set to launch JICA 3.0, aiming to enhance forest conservation, livelihood generation, and sustainable development. Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma emphasizes model villages, solar energy, and better marketing for forest products, following the success of JICA 2.0 and active community participation across Tripura’s forest regions.
Tripura is preparing to launch the third phase of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) project, dubbed JICA 3.0, marking another major step towards sustainable forest development, community empowerment, and ecological conservation in the state. Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma on Friday expressed optimism regarding the upcoming phase, highlighting several new suggestions to enhance the scheme’s reach and impact.
In an exclusive interview with Tripura Times, Debbarma revealed that he held detailed discussions with officials of the JICA India Mission at his official residence. “I have suggested to them to make sure that more benefits are transferred directly to the beneficiaries. Awareness is key — we need intensive campaigns so that the people understand the scope of the schemes. Moreover, forest-based Joint Forest Management Committee (JFMC) products must find a viable and structured market,” the Minister said.
Debbarma emphasized the importance of involving central government agencies to assist in marketing forest products effectively, thereby helping forest-dependent communities attain sustainable incomes. Another critical component of his proposal was the development of model villages in forest regions to promote sustainable living.
“One of the key issues is the unsustainable use of firewood from forests. We have to popularize the use of solar energy and other green alternatives. These model villages can become beacons of eco-friendly living, helping to mitigate environmental degradation,” he added.
Success of JICA 2.0 Sets the Stage
The Minister confirmed that JICA 2.0 is nearing completion, with significant groundwork laid to initiate JICA 3.0. “We are almost at the fag end of JICA 2.0. Soon, the preliminary work for JICA 3.0 will begin. The officials appreciated all my suggestions, and we are hopeful that the new phase will address the evolving needs of our forest communities,” he said.
Highlighting the achievements under the ongoing phase, Debbarma informed that the state has constructed 350 check dams in the past year and that 11 model check dams are currently under development in various locations. These structures play a crucial role in water conservation, soil stabilization, and livelihood promotion for nearby communities.
JICA Delegation’s Visit to Tripura
A press release from the Tripura chapter of JICA shed further light on the agency’s visit from July 8 to 11, 2025, during which a high-level delegation reviewed the progress of the Tripura SCATFORM Project. Their itinerary included key project interventions in Gomati District and Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary, with the team inspecting plantations, agroforestry models, check dams, and various livelihood initiatives.
One of the most significant highlights of the visit was the inspection of an ecotourism site developed by Tripura Nature Trails and Resorts Limited, a major initiative under SCATFORM aimed at promoting sustainable tourism, biodiversity conservation, and income generation for local communities.
The JICA team engaged directly with Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs), witnessing firsthand the active participation of local communities in sustainable development initiatives.
The visit concluded with a debriefing session led by R.K. Samal, Principal Secretary and PCCF & HoFF, Government of Tripura. The delegation appreciated the state’s commitment to ecological restoration, sustainable development, and community-based approaches.
Financial and Structural Progress
The Tripura SCATFORM Project, backed by a loan of Rs 275.53 crore from JICA, has shown impressive financial momentum, with Rs 338.20 crore worth of progress recorded to date. This reflects not only timely execution but also efficient resource convergence at various administrative levels.
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Tripura’s proactive approach to sustainable forestry, green livelihoods, and community inclusion through JICA-funded projects has made it a standout performer in northeastern India. As JICA 3.0 nears initiation, stakeholders expect a stronger integration of renewable energy, market-driven forest product initiatives, and eco-tourism — further aligning development with conservation.
