Agartala, March 20, 2026: Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma on Thursday highlighted the state government’s initiative to conserve medicinal plants and promote indigenous knowledge in Dhalai and North Tripura districts under a project funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC).

Detailing the objectives, Debbarma said the project focuses on conserving local biodiversity with special emphasis on medicinal plants, setting up sample herbal gardens, and creating awareness among rural communities. He added that efforts are also being made to document indigenous knowledge and traditional healthcare practices associated with medicinal plant use.

“The initiative aims to promote sustainable use of medicinal plants by integrating traditional practices into an alternate healthcare system,” the minister said. He further informed that steps are being taken to link the medicinal plants database with an appropriate online portal, develop efficient supply chain mechanisms, and create a price and marketing information database for key medicinal species.

Providing financial details, Debbarma stated that no funds were received or utilised during the financial years 2023–24 and 2024–25. However, in the current financial year 2025–26 (up to December 31), the state has received Rs 48 lakh, out of which Rs 20.60 lakh has already been utilised.

The utilised funds have been directed towards biodiversity conservation efforts, establishment of herbal garden spots, awareness programmes, preparation of herbariums, and development of marketing and supply chain frameworks for medicinal plants, the minister added.