Agartala has emerged as a floral powerhouse, with floriculture acreage surging by an astonishing 332% over the past seven years. Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced this milestone on Saturday, crediting government initiatives and rising local demand for boosting farmers’ incomes.
Since the financial year 2018-19, the cultivation of flowers has expanded rapidly across the state. Farmers are shifting from traditional crops to floriculture, lured by better prices and consistent market demand. ‘This sector is proving highly profitable, opening new income avenues for our growers,’ Nath stated.
In areas like Bishalgarh, where vegetable farming once dominated, florists are now reaping higher rewards. The government’s focus on self-reliance and grassroots employment aligns perfectly with this trend. Flowers aren’t just for decoration; they’re essential for Holi colors, medicines, and perfumes, ensuring year-round demand.
Tripura’s fertile soil, ample rainfall, and subtropical climate make it ideal for diverse blooms like marigolds, gladioli, and roses. Traditional flower cultivation area has grown by 60% since 2018-19. High-tech methods have also advanced, with protected cultivation of anthuriums, orchids, and gerberas seeing a 124% increase.
Farmers cultivating flowers on just 200 square meters earn over 10,000 rupees monthly, thanks to strong local markets. To support this growth, the state has established a 400 sqm arcadium and hardening center at Badarghat Garden in West Tripura, named ‘Center of Floriculture and Landscaping,’ built at a cost of 4.50 crore rupees with PWD assistance.
Additionally, a ‘Center of Excellence on Flowers’ is under development on 65 kanis of land in Lembuchera, a joint central-state project. It will focus on orchids, anthuriums, gerberas, roses, chrysanthemums, and ornamental foliage, while providing training and quality planting material to farmers.
Minister Nath expressed optimism that these efforts will position Tripura as a leading floriculture hub, setting new benchmarks in flower production and farmer prosperity.