Agartala/IBNS: The 'Yapiry Village Organization', a self-help group (SHG) of women, has achieved remarkable success by cultivating five different varieties of maize in a one-hectare plot at Tripura's Bashram Para.

This initiative, supported by the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) and the Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare department, holds promising prospects for the state's agricultural sector, reported Northeast Today.

Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath, accompanied by key officials, recently visited the maize cultivable land at Basharam Para to witness the positive outcomes of this women-led SHG project.

Minister Nath highlighted that maize cultivation has yielded higher profits compared to rice production due to lower expenses and increased demand for maize in Tripura.

By cultivating maize locally, the state can reduce its dependence on imported poultry feed and foster self-sufficiency.

Minister Nath further emphasized the government's commitment to doubling farmers' income and praised the cooperative efforts of elected representatives from different political parties.

The successful maize cultivation by the SHG serves as a shining example of the government's dedication to rural development.

The minister also announced upcoming initiatives, including the visit of Tripura Renewable Energy Development Agency (TREDA) officials to set up a solar-powered water supply system using nearby streams for the SHG's agricultural needs.

Additionally, the government aims to expand maize cultivation across hundreds of hectares, leading to increased food grain production and potential opportunities for industrial agriculture and processing.

To promote maize cultivation, Minister Nath requested the TRLM CEO to provide sweet corn for the cabinet meeting, showcasing the quality and potential of this crop.

Furthermore, plans are underway to construct an Animal Resource Development (ARD) Centre near Lefunga Hospital, along with providing subsidies for purchasing tractors and distributing power tillers to farmers.

With its focus on empowering women and enhancing agricultural productivity, Tripura's maize cultivation initiative sets a positive precedent for farmers' self-reliance and income growth.