In a recent press conference at the secretariat, Ratan Lal Nath, the Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, emphasized the government’s commitment to doubling the income of farmers and enhancing agricultural self-reliance. The government is dedicated to supporting farmers, especially in compensating for losses due to natural calamities.

Minister Nath outlined several initiatives aimed at assisting farmers affected by natural disasters. The government has taken significant steps to compensate 81,301 farmers impacted by various calamities. Assistance is being provided through the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).

During Cyclone Midhili, which occurred from November 16 to 18, 2023, crops across 23,171 hectares were damaged, affecting 58,210 farmers. The Agriculture Department has allocated Rs 14.5894 crore under the SDRF scheme to support these farmers, who will receive Rs 8,500 per hectare. Additionally, the Horticulture Department has sanctioned Rs 7.3824 crore under the SDRF scheme for 20,078 affected farmers, while 874 farmers will receive Rs 44.6 lakh under the PMFBY.

Untimely rains from December 6 to 8, 2023, resulted in losses for 2,139 farmers. They will receive Rs 69.3 lakh under the PMFBY.

The government is also seeking compensation under the SDRF scheme for farmers impacted by heavy rains on May 28, 2024.

Addressing the recruitment of vacant positions in the Agriculture Minister’s office, Minister Nath announced that 59 Agriculture Officers (Grade-1) have been selected through the Tripura Public Service Commission (TPSC). Among them, 21 women were chosen in adherence to the 33 percent reservation policy. The appointment offers will be distributed soon.