By TC News Desk
Agartala, 17th August 2024: In a significant step towards boosting agriculture and economic growth in Tripura, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma spearheaded a palm oil plantation ceremony at East Tak Saiya ADC Village under the Tulasikhar Block. The initiative, jointly organized by the Tulasikhar Agriculture Department and Patanjali Association Food Limited, aims to cultivate palm oil on 40 hectares of land in the region.
The event, held on Saturday at 4 PM, saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Bishu Debbarma, Chairman of the Khowai Zone TTAADC, Dr. Phani Bhushan Jamatia, Director of Horticulture, Sabendra Debbarma, and Deputy Director of Agriculture Department, Prashant Debbarma. Ayan Sarkar, Director of Patanjali Food Limited, also graced the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma emphasized the potential of palm oil cultivation to revolutionize the state’s agricultural landscape. “A few months ago, Deputy Director Prashant Debbarma approached me with a proposal to introduce palm oil cultivation in the state. Recognizing its potential, I immediately approved it,” said the minister. He highlighted that palm oil cultivation can be significantly more lucrative than rubber farming, stating, “While rubber is a profitable cash crop, palm oil has the potential to yield 20 times more income for farmers.”
Minister Debbarma explained that palm oil cultivation is relatively simple and can be undertaken on flat or fallow land, as well as in hilly areas. “With proper care, within four to eight years, farmers will start seeing substantial returns. They could earn over three lakh rupees annually from palm oil farming,” he added.
Citing the success stories of countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, which have seen immense profits from palm oil cultivation, the minister expressed optimism about the future of palm oil farming in Tripura. He also pointed out the diverse uses of palm oil, not only as a food product but also in the manufacturing of goods like soap. “Palm oil contributes to the production of many products. For instance, the oil in soap helps keep the skin healthy, providing an added benefit to its users,” he noted.
The initial phase of the project involves planting palm oil saplings across 40 hectares of land, of which 32 hectares have already been covered. The remaining plantation is scheduled to be completed by September. Despite inclement weather, the ceremony proceeded with enthusiasm as Minister Debbarma symbolically planted palm oil trees, and local residents participated wholeheartedly.
The success of this ambitious project will unfold in the coming years as the region’s farmers await the potential rewards of palm oil cultivation.
