Agartala, December 17, 2024: Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced significant developments in the state’s agricultural infrastructure during the inauguration of the RIDF project for rural markets in Kanchanbari and Radhanagar in the Fatikrai assembly area on Tuesday. Speaking at the event, Minister Nath emphasized the comprehensive efforts underway to enhance the state’s 554 agricultural markets.

The current market infrastructure include 48 Primary Wholesale Markets including 21 newly established markets and 491 Rural Markets (Haat Bazaars).

“In these markets, we have initiated the development of essential infrastructure, including the construction of sheds, stalls, toilets, drinking water facilities, and sewage systems,” Nath stated. He expressed optimism that these improvements would facilitate easier participation of farmers and traders in the sale and purchase of agricultural products. “Our goal is to create a supportive environment where farmers can thrive,” he added.

The newly constructed Primary Market Building in Kanchanbari Bazar, under the Fatikroy assembly constituency, was inaugurated by Minister Nath. This initiative, driven by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, aims to bolster local agricultural activities. Cabinet member Sudhangshu Das, who also attended the event, shared his positive outlook on the project’s impact. “This high-quality market stall will play a crucial role in the overall development of the area and benefit the unemployed population of Kanchanbari,” Das remarked.

During the ceremony, keys to the shop stalls and various agricultural equipment were handed over to the shopkeepers and farmers of the two-storey market building. “These resources are vital for the advancement of our agricultural community,” Nath asserted.

Minister Nath highlighted the state’s commitment to supporting its farmers through such initiatives. “The state government is dedicated to ensuring that our farmers have the infrastructure and tools they need to succeed,” he said. The event concluded with a strong sense of community and optimism for the future of agriculture in Tripura.

He also stated, “With financial assistance from NABARD under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), significant measures have been undertaken for the development of 48 agricultural markets. These measures include infrastructure projects like building market sheds, ensuring water supply systems, and creating drainage and sanitation facilities. The total funds allocated is Rs 137.11 crore. So far, work on 40 markets has been completed, while 8 markets are under development, and tenders for 6 additional markets have been floated.”

“The current RIDF project has allocated an additional ₹3.28 crore for specific rural market projects in Kamalpur and Radhanagar. Moreover, another ₹86.75 lakh has been invested for the ongoing development of Radhanagar rural markets.”