BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 24th January 2025: Science, Technology, and Environment Minister Animesh Debbarma today inaugurated five Biovillage 2.0 projects under the Tulashikhar Block in Khowai district, marking another milestone in Tripura’s rural development journey.
A pioneering initiative of the state’s Biotechnology Department, Biovillage 2.0 has already garnered national recognition from NITI Aayog. Highlighting the transformative potential of this project, Minister Debbarma commended the department’s innovative approach and praised the success of 21 biovillages already operational across the state.
During the event, key resources were distributed to 318 beneficiaries, including *1,272 LED bulbs, 318 solar-powered lights, 47 battery-operated 16-liter sprayers, and 330 liters of organic liquid fertilizer.*
The newly launched projects target five predominantly tribal and Odia-populated villages: *Purba Behalabari, Bidyabil, Paschim Rajnagar, Paschim Champa Chhera, and Purba Takchaya.* These once lesser-known villages have become hubs of sustainable innovation through the Department of Biotechnology’s Biovillage 2.0 initiative.
Anjan Sengupta, Joint Director of the Biotechnology Department and the visionary behind Biovillage 2.0, expressed pride in the initiative’s national impact. “When I first conceptualized this project, I never imagined it would grow into a model for the entire country,” he said. Launched in 2018 with financial assistance from ONGC Tripura, Biovillage 2.0 began with India’s first tribal biovillages and has since expanded to 26 across Tripura. The initiative empowers rural communities through eco-friendly and sustainable practices, fostering self-sufficiency.
Among the beneficiaries, *Abala Debbarma of Paschim Champa Chhera village* shared her excitement about receiving solar-powered tools, energy-efficient piglets, and other resources. “This project has given us the hope and tools to improve our lives sustainably,” she said.
The initiative provides beneficiaries with tailored support, including *ducklings, goats, biogas setups, beekeeping kits, solar-powered devices, and energy-efficient livestock.* The goal is to create self-sustaining rural communities that prioritize green energy and eco-friendly practices.
The launch of these new biovillages highlights Tripura’s commitment to rural development and sustainability, setting a national benchmark for innovation and progress.
