Agartala, August 22, 2025: Tripura Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Friday visited the Horticulture Research Station at Nagicherra, where he planted mangosteen saplings and reviewed the experimental cultivation of rambutan, a tropical fruit being grown for the first time in the state.

Speaking to officials, the Minister highlighted the potential of rambutan, describing it as “more delicious than lychee and highly profitable for farmers.” He said the fruit, which was earlier under trial at Nagicherra, has shown encouraging results, and the department will soon initiate steps for wider cultivation across Tripura.

Explaining the testing process, Nath said, “Before introducing any crop statewide, it is first examined at Nagicherra to assess its compatibility with local climate and soil. If it thrives here, we encourage farmers to cultivate it.” He also announced that two varieties of rambutan yellow and red have been successfully introduced, both seasonal fruits that bear from July to September.

Alongside, the Minister planted mangosteen saplings brought from Karnataka and stated that broader cultivation would be considered after initial assessments.

On the success of avocado farming, Nath said the fruit has now expanded to nearly 26 hectares in Tripura. “Just four years ago, this fruit was unknown in our state. Today, many farmers are benefiting from its cultivation. With prices ranging between Rs 800 and Rs 1,000 per kilogram, avocado has become a lucrative crop,” he remarked. He added that avocado trees, which yield for 15–20 years, are providing farmers with a sustained source of income.

Looking ahead, the Minister revealed that the department plans to experiment with other exotic fruits, including kiwi, blueberry, and blackberry, at the Nagicherra research station. “Our goal is to diversify agriculture and enhance farmer welfare through innovative crop strategies,” he said.