BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 16th June 2025: In a landmark moment for Tripura’s horticulture sector, a farmer from Baidyardighi in Bishalgarh, Sepahijala district dispatched the first consignment of garden-fresh Queen variety pineapples to New Delhi today. The 150 kg consignment, airlifted upon special requisition by a trader is set to be served to an international delegation and top dignitaries of the country.
This marks the first-ever shipment of pineapples from Bishalgarh to the national capital. The initiative was made possible through a Farmer Producer Company from Sepahijala, with technical and logistical assistance from the International Competence Centre for Organic Agriculture (ICCOA), Bangalore.
The flag-off event witnessed the presence of local dignitaries, including Bishalgarh MLA Sushanta Deb, Panchayat Samiti Chairperson Atashi Das, and several PRI members. Officials from the Department of Horticulture, including Himanish Laskar (Superintendent, Bishalgarh Subdivision) and sector officers, expressed pride in the accomplishment, attributing it to the department’s consistent efforts and farmers’ dedication.
Local farmer Hanif Miah, who cultivates pineapples on one hectare of land, has already earned ₹70,000 this season. He shared that he receives continuous technical and financial support from the Bishalgarh Horticulture Subdivision.
Tripura’s Queen and Kew variety pineapples have earned international recognition over the past seven years. The state has witnessed a threefold rise in commercial pineapple cultivation, driven by rising demand from markets across India, the UK, and the Middle East.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Sushanta Deb said, “In the past, due to the lack of market linkage, farmers in Tripura were compelled to sell world-class pineapples, lemons, and jackfruits at low prices in Assam and even informally to Bangladesh. Many gave up fruit cultivation altogether. Since the BJP-IPFT government took charge in 2018, we prioritized marketing our produce, and the results are evident today.”
He added that the Agriculture and Horticulture Department is now focusing on reclaiming land for seasonal fruit cultivation and encouraging youth to adopt modern farming practices. “At the age of 79, our Agriculture Minister Ratanlal Nath continues to inspire the youth to engage in agriculture, and his contribution deserves immense respect,” Deb said.
Looking ahead, officials and leaders are hopeful that Bishalgarh will become a hub for not just pineapples but also for naturally grown mangoes, lemons, and other horticultural produce.
