A remarkable Triumph: Tripura’s Journey Towards Potato Self-Sufficiency by 2029

Tripura is on the cusp of an agricultural revolution, setting a bold and ambitious target to achieve complete Tripura Potato Self-Sufficiency by the fiscal year 2029-30. This initiative, spearheaded by the state’s Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department under the leadership of Minister Ratan Lal Nath, is a testament to the government’s commitment to modernizing farming practices and ensuring food security. The state’s positive approach is already showing promising results, with record-breaking yields that have surprised even international experts.

Key Highlights of the Tripura Potato Self-Sufficiency Drive

• A Shift from Dependency to Self-Reliance: Historically, Tripura has been heavily reliant on other states like West Bengal and Punjab for its potato supply. The annual demand for potatoes is approximately 1.55 lakh metric tonnes (MT), while local production previously stood at around 1.46 lakh MT. This created a supply-demand gap, which the current government aims to eliminate entirely by 2030. The journey towards Tripura Potato Self-Sufficiency is not just about meeting local needs, but also about creating a robust, self-reliant agricultural economy.
• The Power of Apical Rooted Cutting (ARC) Technology: The key to this agricultural leap has been the introduction of advanced cultivation methods. While earlier attempts with True Potato Seeds (TPS) faced challenges due to high costs and the need for skilled labor, the state has now embraced Apical Rooted Cutting (ARC) technology. This innovative method has proven to be a game-changer. The state government, with support from the Centre’s Rashtriya Krishi Bima Yojana (RKBY) and a partnership with the Peru-based International Potato Centre (CIP), has successfully implemented the use of this technology, leading to unprecedented yield increases.
• Astounding Yield Growth: The results of the ARC technology are nothing short of remarkable. The average potato yield per hectare in Tripura has skyrocketed from a traditional 19.16 MT to an impressive range of 52-62.50 MT. This monumental increase has not only fulfilled the vision for Tripura Potato Self-Sufficiency but has also drawn international praise. CIP Director General Simon Heck was reportedly astonished by the results, stating he had never witnessed such high yields anywhere else in the world.
• Farmer Engagement and Growth: The initiative has been rolled out in phases, with a clear focus on involving more and more farmers each year. The project, which started with 104 farmers in the fiscal year 2022-23, expanded to 402 farmers in 2023-24, and now, a staggering 4,000 farmers are part of the program in the current financial year. The government’s strategy is to provide subsidized high-yield seeds and continuous support to empower local farmers, making them the driving force behind this pursuit of Tripura Potato Self-Sufficiency.
• Expansion and Future Plans: Looking ahead, the government has set specific timelines. It aims to achieve self-sufficiency in potato seed production by 2028-29, followed by complete potato self-reliance by 2029-30. A crucial part of this plan is the establishment of a potato chips processing centre, which will not only add value to the produce but also open up new avenues for export. This move will transform Tripura from a consumer to a major producer and exporter, contributing significantly to the state’s economic growth. The commitment to achieving Tripura Potato Self-Sufficiency is more than just a plan; it is a long-term vision for prosperity.
• A Model for Sustainability: The state government is also ensuring the sustainability of its efforts. It has put in place a strict monitoring system to prevent the misuse of subsidized seeds and to ensure that the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries. This holistic approach ensures that the path to Tripura Potato Self-Sufficiency is built on a foundation of integrity and long-term viability. The success stories of individual farmers like Sajal Bhaumik and Komal Debnath, who achieved record yields of 61.2 MT and 51.2 MT per hectare respectively, serve as powerful motivators for others to join the movement.

In conclusion, the government’s visionary approach, the adoption of cutting-edge technology, and the unwavering support for local farmers are all coming together to make the goal of Tripura Potato Self-Sufficiency a reality. This initiative will not only secure food supply for the state but also position it as a leader in agricultural innovation in the region. The journey is well underway, and with each passing season, the dream of a self-sufficient Tripura becomes a tangible achievement, benefiting thousands of farming families and strengthening the state’s economy. The focus on sustainability and value addition through processing units will ensure that the gains from this effort are long-lasting and continue to yield positive returns for years to come. This is a story of progress, perseverance, and the transformative power of strategic planning in the pursuit of agricultural excellence and Tripura Potato Self-Sufficiency.