Tripura has entered the European organic food market with its first-ever export of 18.7 metric tonnes of certified organic aromatic rice from the state.
Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath formally flagged off the consignment during a sensitisation programme on the National Programme for Organic Production held at Pragna Bhaban in Agartala.
The shipment, exported through Pratithi Organic Foods Pvt Ltd, includes 1.2 metric tonnes of Kalikhasa rice, 1.5 metric tonnes of sticky rice, 6 metric tonnes of black rice and 10 metric tonnes of Harinarayan rice.
Nath described the export as a significant milestone in Tripura’s efforts to provide farmers with access to international markets. He said the state’s fertile soil, favourable rainfall and biodiversity offer strong prospects for organic farming.
According to the minister, farmers in Tripura have traditionally relied on sustainable agricultural practices such as crop rotation, mixed farming and organic manure. These traditional methods are now being supported by modern certification systems to ensure compliance with international quality standards.
Nath said Tripura’s organic produce has already found markets in different parts of India as well as countries and regions including Germany, Dubai, Oman and Bangladesh.
The state’s major agricultural products include aromatic rice, ginger, scented lemon, bird’s eye chilli and the Geographical Indication-tagged Queen Pineapple.
The minister said the latest consignment to Europe reflects rising international demand for Tripura’s organic products and growing participation of farmers in certified organic cultivation.
At present, around 26,600 hectares of land in Tripura are under organic cultivation. Of this, 14,411 hectares have been registered as organic land, while 2,002 hectares are undergoing conversion and another 10,189 hectares are under consideration.
The government has also supported the formation of 53 Farmer Producer Companies to promote collective marketing, improve access to markets and strengthen farmers’ bargaining power.
Nath said the government was focusing on farmer training, organic certification, market connections and targeted schemes to encourage cultivation of high-value crops with strong demand in both domestic and international markets.
He said the government aims to establish Tripura as a major centre for organic agriculture, with increasing exports expected to boost rural incomes and create new opportunities for farmers.
