Agartala, December 2, 2025: Tripura’s Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Monday stressed the need for self-reliance in farming to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of positioning India as a global grain hub.

The Minister was speaking at the Mohanpur Agriculture Sub-Division, where modern agricultural equipment, saplings and spray machines were distributed among local farmers as part of efforts to boost productivity and promote mechanised farming practices.

Describing the initiative as a step towards modernising agriculture, Nath said improved tools and scientific methods would help farmers increase output and strengthen their economic independence. He added that Tripura is progressing in a planned manner and must move swiftly towards achieving agricultural self-sufficiency, particularly at the block and district levels.

Emphasising the importance of local production, the Minister said regions such as Mohanpur must ensure they are not dependent on external supplies for essential food items. He reiterated that agriculture remains the backbone of the country’s development and plays a crucial role in realising the broader national vision of self-reliance.

Nath also highlighted the success of onion cultivation in the state, crediting agricultural scientists for proving its feasibility in local conditions. He said both red and white varieties of onions are now being grown, and special focus is being given to onion and potato farming, along with staples like rice and pulses, to achieve food security.

Referring to India’s growing export capacity, the Minister noted that the country supplies agricultural and allied products, including fish and eggs, to several nations, and Tripura has the potential to contribute significantly to this expanding market.