In a strategic move to supercharge rice production, Tripura Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath made a compelling case for increased central funding Tuesday, advocating for widespread adoption of hybrid paddy across 30,000-plus hectares. The plea came during a video conference financial review of agriculture schemes, led by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Tripura’s fields, where paddy occupies half the arable area, stand to gain immensely from this hybrid push under the 2026-27 RKVY-DPR framework. Nath stressed its role in food security amid the state’s unique agro-climatic conditions. Chouhan, reviewing 18 states, commended Tripura’s fiscal prudence and high fund absorption: 79% in PM-RKVY, 61% in production schemes, and matching figures for natural farming.
Aiming to exhaust this fiscal year’s allocations completely, Nath positioned Tripura in the nation’s top five for spending efficacy. He sought Rs 20 crore additional for farm mechanization via SMAM and aid in issuing Farm IDs to 1.25 lakh tribal ROFR patta holders. With 96% smallholders dominating the scene, pleas for enhanced cost ceilings in RKVY, NFSM, and oil palm missions aim to tailor support for rice-centric activities.
The Union Minister validated the demands, promising swift fund approvals. Joined by Secretary Apurva Roy and Director Phanibhushan Jamatia, the meeting underscored Tripura’s proactive stance. As negotiations progress, farmers eye a brighter, more productive horizon, blending tradition with modern hybrid tech for enduring prosperity.