Tripura’s government is pushing hard to get a special Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its famous Agar tree, which could boost the local economy big time. Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath shared this exciting update during a meeting with the All Tripura Agar Wood Association in Agartala on Wednesday.
The state has already sent a proposal to the central authorities to recognize Tripura Agar tree with a GI tag. This move aims to protect and promote the unique quality of Agar produced here, making it stand out in the global market. Agar wood, known for its rich fragrance, is a hot commodity used in perfumes, incense, and traditional medicines.
Back in 2021, the Tripura government launched the Agar Wood Policy, which has sparked a boom in the Agar industry. Thanks to this, farmers are now jumping in to grow these valuable trees. Minister Nath highlighted that the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, along with the Forest Department, plans to set up Agar nurseries under agro-forestry programs. The best part? They’ll distribute free saplings to locals, making it easier for anyone to start cultivating.
“Tripura Agar has huge demand inside the state and across India,” Nath said. “We’re working to bring it under agro-forestry to create more jobs and revenue.” He pointed out how Agar farming in Kadamtala, North Tripura district, last year brought in significant GST collections, giving a real financial lift to the government.
Farmers are super enthusiastic now, with many from other districts eager to join the Agar cultivation trend. Last year alone, sales of Agar chips and oil hit Rs 25 crore – that’s a solid win for the state’s economy. Big companies are knocking on doors to partner on Agar projects, and Chief Minister Manik Saha is fully on board with expanding this initiative.
Nath added that the previous government did little to promote Agar, but things changed after the 2021 policy. “Tripura Agar is world-famous for its quality,” he said. In the next cabinet meeting, he’ll push for ways to ramp up cultivation even more. With nurseries on the way and free saplings, Agar farming could soon become a game-changer for Tripura’s farmers and businesses.
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