Agartala, August 01, 2025: In response to the recent outbreak of cholera affecting betel nut plantations in Jampui Hills, the state government has assured full support to affected farmers and is considering scientific interventions and alternative cropping solutions.

Following widespread media reports about the crisis, the Department of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, under the Tripura Government, promptly dispatched a high-level inspection team to the affected areas in Kanchanpur subdivision under North Tripura district on Thursday. The team was led by Director of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Dipak Kumar Das, and included senior experts and agricultural scientists.

Speaking to reporters after the visit, Director Das said, “The state government is deeply concerned about the situation in Jampui Hills. After receiving information about the cholera outbreak in betel nut gardens, we formed an expert team to assess the situation on the ground and consult with local farmers. Based on our findings, we will take immediate and necessary actions.”

He further added, “If farmers are open to cultivating alternative crops to prevent such risks in the future, the government will extend full cooperation in that direction as well.”

The team visited affected plantations in Monpui and Belianchip areas, where they interacted directly with farmers and listened to their concerns. A joint review meeting was later held in the local community hall to discuss findings and potential solutions.

Dr. Rajiv Ghosh, Principal Deputy Director at the State Garden and Horticultural Crops Research Center, noted key causes behind the disease’s spread. “The primary reason is the continuous cultivation of a single crop on the same land for many years, without proper crop rotation or spacing. Overcrowded plantations and reuse of contaminated rainwater have also worsened the outbreak,” he said.

Dr. Ghosh warned against the use of untreated rainwater in betel nut farming and emphasized the need for mixed cropping. “Relying on a single crop can’t sustain the local economy. Mixed cultivation should be encouraged to ensure income throughout the year,” he advised.

The delegation, which included scientists from the Agricultural Science Center and officials from the Agriculture Department, will now submit a detailed report to the government. Based on their recommendations, a scientific and coordinated strategy will be formulated to curb the spread of the disease and rehabilitate affected farmers.

The inspection marks a proactive step by the government in addressing the crisis and working closely with the farming community to safeguard their livelihoods.