Tripura is set to showcase its delicious organic Queen Pineapple and a variety of other fruits in Varanasi on July 21st, announced Chief Minister DR Manik Saha on Monday.

The announcement was made during the inaugural program of the National Conference cum Buyer and Seller Meet organized by the Agriculture department at Pragna Bhavan in Agartala.

"The economy of Tripura is primarily based on agriculture, which not only sustains our state but also contributes significantly to the country's economy. We are fortunate to possess abundant natural resources such as rubber, tea, Agar, bamboo, and gas. These resources have the potential to foster industrial development" stated Chief Minister Dr Saha.

Highlighting Tripura's efforts in rubber production, Chief Minister Dr Saha mentioned, "Tripura is the second-largest producer of rubber after Kerala. In our state, approximately 94,000 metric tons of rubber are produced across 70,000 hectares of land. The rubber industry has played a crucial role in the economic development of our state. To ensure the quality of rubber, we are constructing smoke houses and manufacturing graded rubber sheets. We are also actively working on establishing partnerships with various tire companies to produce tires using locally sourced rubber."

He further added, "Tripura is known as the 'queen of pineapples,' and it has been officially declared the state food by the former President of India. Our queen pineapples are not only popular within the country but also in foreign markets. Recently, we held an exhibition of our pineapples in Delhi. We are exporting pineapples to other countries and have established an 'Integrated Pack House' for packaging and quality maintenance purposes. Our food products are being showcased in various locations, and on July 21st, we will exhibit them in Varanasi."

Chief Minister Dr Saha also shared that the state government is cultivating more than 419 varieties of exotic flowers on 1163 hectares of land.

“Tripura boasts 21 species of bamboo, and our bamboo has been used in the construction of the new parliament building. The favorable climate of Tripura supports the cultivation of fruits on over 12,000 hectares of land and vegetables in approximately 16,000 hectares. We are dedicated to doubling the income of farmers. In 2015, the average farmer's income was INR 6,580, and now it has increased to INR 13,510. The improved connectivity in the state will also benefit importers and exporters”, said CM.

During the national conference held today, around 18 buyers and sellers from across the country participated.

Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath, Secretary of the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department Apurba Roy, and other dignitaries were also present at the event.