AGARTALA: Chief Minister Manik Saha inaugurated the 4th International Agarwood Conclave in Agartala, emphasizing the significance of agar as a symbol of economic development in the state. He noted that agar cultivation is deeply rooted in the tradition and culture of Tripura. This event, organized by the Tripura Forest Department at Hotel Polo Tower, will continue until December 4, 2024.

During the inauguration, the Chief Minister highlighted the connection between the name Agartala and the agar tree, suggesting that many believe the city’s name is derived from this tree. As the state tree, agar represents Tripura’s heritage and plays a crucial role in supporting the livelihoods of thousands of families.

The Chief Minister also mentioned the increasing participation of women in the agar industry, which is contributing to their economic empowerment. In 2021, the Tripura Agar Wood Policy was adopted to promote large-scale cultivation and processing of agar. This initiative aims to boost the agar-based economy in the state to a value of 2,000 crore rupees over the next 4-5 years.

Efforts are being made to enhance domestic trade in the agar sector by producing attar, incense, agarbati, spices, and premium incense sticks. The Government of Tripura has also worked with various departments of the Government of India to facilitate agar exports. Developing the agarwood sector is expected to improve the socio-economic conditions of the state’s residents.

The Chief Minister emphasized the vast potential for expanding the agar-based industry in the global market. He believes that the conclave and buyer-seller conference will strengthen the agar economy in Tripura. Meaningful discussions, collaborative efforts, and innovative topics at this event will help showcase the state’s agar products on the international stage. With everyone’s combined efforts, Tripura aims to become a global hub for agar cultivation and trade in the near future.