Tripura plans to convert 21 agricultural markets into digital eNAM hubs, enabling farmers to sell produce online nationwide. The initiative aims to boost farmers’ income, modernize market infrastructure, and ensure fair prices through phased digital integration.
In a landmark move aimed at modernizing agriculture and empowering farmers, the Tripura Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, with support from the Central Government, is set to convert 21 agricultural markets across the state into fully digital trading hubs under the Electronic National Agriculture Market (eNAM) initiative. This transformation is expected to enhance farmers’ incomes by providing them access to buyers nationwide through an online trading platform.
The announcement was made by Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Thursday during the inauguration of a newly constructed agricultural market in Kulai and a Rural Knowledge Centre in Noagaon village, both located in Dhalai district. Addressing the gathering, Minister Nath highlighted the significance of the initiative for the state’s agricultural sector.
“Tripura currently has 554 agricultural markets, including 84 wholesale markets. Out of these, 21 production markets have been selected for phased integration into the eNAM platform,” said Nath. “Our government has been in power for seven years, and we believe that agricultural production alone is not enough. We must treat farm produce like industrial goods and create robust marketing channels for our farmers.”
Minister Nath contrasted the current government’s efforts with previous administrations, noting that the earlier government spent Rs 20.20 crore on market development over seven years, whereas the current administration has invested Rs 303 crore during the same period—a clear demonstration of its commitment to farmers’ welfare.
The eNAM initiative is designed to empower farmers by allowing them to upload images and quantities of their produce from home and sell them at fair market prices to buyers across India. This digital integration will facilitate transparency, reduce intermediaries, and enhance profitability for local farmers.
The implementation of the initiative will be executed in two phases. The first phase will digitize seven markets: Panisagar, Pabiachera, Kulai, Teliamura, Mohanpur, Sonamura, and Santirbazar. The second phase will bring 12 additional markets online: Dashda, Bachai Bari, Kalyanpur, Champaknagar, Bishalgarh, Jampuijala, Melaghar, Barpathari, Natun Bazar, Gandatwisa, and Chawmanu.
Each market will be equipped with modern infrastructure, including offices, auction platforms, drinking water facilities, retail shops, laboratories, grading and sorting systems, weighing stations, and warehouses. The Central Government has already sanctioned Rs 2.10 crore for the development of the first seven markets, marking the beginning of a comprehensive modernization drive.
Minister Nath emphasized the government’s overarching objective: “Our primary goal is to double farmers’ income and ensure they receive fair value for their produce. Agriculture is the backbone of development and the economy. By leveraging technology and efficient market systems, we can make agriculture more profitable and sustainable for our farmers.”
The eNAM project aligns with the broader national vision of promoting digital agriculture and creating a unified market structure across India. By integrating Tripura’s agricultural markets into the eNAM network, farmers will gain access to a wider customer base, better price discovery, and a more transparent and efficient trading process.
| Also Read: Kailashahar Bandh: Law enforcement faces allegations amid tensions |
This initiative is expected to not only strengthen the state’s agricultural economy but also serve as a model for other regions, demonstrating how digital technology can revolutionize traditional farming practices and boost rural incomes. With the government’s strong financial backing and commitment, Tripura’s farmers are set to experience a transformative leap in agricultural marketing and profitability.
