Rs 3.20 crore seed money and 43 two-wheelers were distributed under the IGDC–CRELFAT Project in Tripura’s Dhalai and North Tripura districts, strengthening sustainable livelihoods, forest conservation, and community-based income generation initiatives.
In a push toward sustainable livelihoods and forest conservation, seed money and revolving funds amounting to Rs 3.20 crore were disbursed among Self Help Groups (SHGs), Common Interest Groups (CIGs), and Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) under the Integrated Green Development Corridor (IGDC)–CRELFAT Project in Tripura’s Dhalai and North Tripura districts on Friday, officials said.
The distribution programme was organised jointly by the District Project Management Units of Dhalai and North Tripura districts and held at the Town Hall in Ambassa. Alongside financial assistance, 43 two-wheelers were also handed over to field-level officials to strengthen project monitoring, implementation, and outreach activities across remote and forest-fringe areas.
The event was inaugurated by Forest, Science, Technology and Environment Minister Animesh Debbarma in the presence of several elected representatives and senior officials. Among those attending were Dhalai Zilla Sabhadipati Susmita Das, Ambassa Municipal Council Chairman Pratima Malakar, Ambassa Panchayat Samity Chairperson Hemali Debbarma, and Ambassa RD Block BAC Chairman Parimal Debbarma.
Senior forest and project officials also participated in the programme, including Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force R K Samal, Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial) K Sasikumar, IGDC–CRELFAT Chief Executive Officer and Project Director S Prabhu, District Project Director (North Tripura) Suman Malla, District Project Director (Dhalai) Sangita Abha Khatal, and Chief Technical Advisor of the Project Management Consultant Rajan Kutru.
Focus on Green Growth and Alternative Livelihoods
Addressing the gathering, Minister Animesh Debbarma highlighted the broader vision behind the IGDC–CRELFAT initiative. He stated that the programme aims to build a “Green Tripura” by reducing the dependence of forest dwellers on forest resources while creating sustainable alternative livelihood opportunities.
“The primary objective of this project is to reduce pressure on forests by empowering local communities with income-generating options. Through structured financial support and capacity building, we want to ensure long-term environmental protection alongside economic development,” the minister said.
He emphasized that forest conservation cannot succeed without addressing the livelihood needs of communities living in and around forest areas. The IGDC–CRELFAT project, he added, integrates ecological sustainability with economic resilience by promoting community-based enterprises.
Financial Support for Community-Based Enterprises
Project Director S Prabhu, while addressing the programme, explained that the financial assistance would be provided to SHGs, CIGs, and JLGs linked to 32 model villages across Dhalai and North Tripura districts. These villages have been identified as priority areas under the IGDC–CRELFAT framework.
The seed money and revolving funds are intended to support a wide range of income-generating activities, including non-timber forest produce collection, small-scale rural enterprises, value addition of forest products, animal husbandry, and other self-employment initiatives.
“The funds will help beneficiary groups establish viable livelihoods while encouraging responsible use of forest resources. This approach not only enhances household incomes but also strengthens community participation in forest protection,” Prabhu said.
Cheques Distributed, Two-Wheelers Flagged Off
During the programme, Minister Debbarma distributed cheques amounting to Rs 3.20 crore among beneficiary groups comprising members of Village Development and Protection Implementation Committees from both districts, officials confirmed.
Additionally, 43 two-wheelers were flagged off and handed over to IGDC–CRELFAT field officials. These vehicles are expected to significantly improve mobility, enabling timely field visits, effective supervision, and smoother coordination across geographically challenging project areas.
Officials noted that improved logistical support would enhance the efficiency of project implementation and ensure regular engagement with beneficiary communities.
Future Plans and Development Proposals
The programme also served as a platform to discuss future development proposals under the project. Key initiatives under consideration include agar and bamboo plantation, construction of market sheds, and establishment of handloom clusters in selected project villages.
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These initiatives are expected to boost local value chains, promote traditional skills, and improve market access for rural producers, further strengthening the socio-economic impact of the IGDC–CRELFAT project.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the BAC Chairman of Ambassa RD Block, marking the successful completion of a programme aimed at combining environmental sustainability with inclusive rural development.
