Tripura has taken a significant step towards strengthening its position in the global organic agriculture market, with Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath flagging off 18.7 metric tonnes of organic aromatic rice for the European market.

The consignment was flagged off through Pratithi Organic Foods Pvt. Ltd. during a sensitization programme on the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) held at Pragna Bhaban, Agartala.

Speaking at the programme, Nath said organic farming has the potential to become a major driver of rural prosperity in Tripura. He highlighted the state’s fertile soil, adequate rainfall and rich biodiversity as key advantages for developing a strong organic agriculture ecosystem.

The Minister said Tripura’s farmers have traditionally followed sustainable practices such as crop rotation, mixed farming and the use of organic compost. He added that natural pest-control methods, including neem-based formulations, cow dung manure and biological controls, have helped preserve soil fertility and biodiversity.

The 18.7 MT export comprises 1.2 MT of Kalikhasa rice, 1.5 MT of sticky rice, 6 MT of black rice and 10 MT of Harinarayan rice.

Nath said Tripura’s organic products have already reached several major Indian cities and overseas markets, including Germany, Dubai, Oman and Bangladesh. Products such as ginger, scented lemon, bird’s eye chilli and GI-tagged Queen Pineapple have also gained recognition beyond the state.

According to the Minister, 26,600 hectares are currently under organic cultivation in Tripura. Of this, 14,411 hectares are registered, 2,002 hectares are under conversion and 10,189 hectares are under consideration. As many as 53 Farmer Producer Companies have also been formed to improve collective strength and market access.

Nath reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through training, certification, targeted schemes and stronger market linkages, with the goal of establishing Tripura as a hub of organic excellence.