First Successful Sweet Grape Cultivation Opens New Possibilities in Tripura: Ratan Lal Nath

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 4, 2026

Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Wednesday announced a roadmap to promote grape cultivation in Tripura, including trials of 18 additional grape varieties, farmer training, research, and technical support.

Addressing a field day-cum-awareness programme on commercial grape cultivation at Chandipur in Unakoti district, the minister said the successful cultivation of sweet grapes in the state for the first time has opened up new opportunities for farmers.

Nath visited a grape orchard and distributed agricultural equipment among farmers. He said scientists have already achieved encouraging results in grape cultivation after reviving research activities at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Unakoti, in 2024.

According to the minister, six grape varieties were introduced from the ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes in September 2024, while research has led to the successful cultivation of four varieties, including two wine grape varieties.

He said the government would support farmers through training, technology development, vineyard establishment, cluster-based cultivation, post-harvest management and small-scale grape juice processing units.

The minister added that efforts are underway to develop cultivation methods suitable for Tripura's climatic conditions, despite challenges such as high rainfall, humidity and limited awareness about grape farming.

Minister Tinku Roy, officials of the Horticulture Department and scientists were present at the programme.

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