Agartala, October 27: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Monday emphasized the need to further strengthen the Kisan Rail network across the North Eastern region to boost agricultural trade and ensure smooth inter-state movement of farm produce.
Speaking at a high-level virtual meeting of the Task Force on Agriculture and Horticulture of the North Eastern States, held at the Conference Hall of the Tripura Institution for Transformation (TIT) office, Dr. Saha highlighted the importance of improving cold storage facilities and logistics support under the Kisan Rail system. The meeting was chaired by Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya Scindia and attended virtually by Chief Ministers and Agriculture Ministers of all Northeastern states.
Dr. Saha stressed that an efficient rail network and advanced storage system are vital to prevent post-harvest losses and ensure timely transportation of perishable goods. He added that agricultural and horticultural products with Geographical Indication (GI) tags from the region should be developed into distinct brands to enhance market value and recognition.
“The soil of the North Eastern region is highly fertile, offering immense potential for cultivating diverse crops using scientific methods,” the Chief Minister said. He urged closer collaboration with agricultural universities and research institutions to promote modern farming practices and crop diversification.
Dr. Saha also emphasized the need to focus on cluster-based production, value addition, and marketing to expand the export of local agri-products to the rest of the country and overseas markets.
During the session, DoNER Minister Scindia praised Sikkim’s successful organic farming model and suggested replicating it across other Northeastern states.
State Agriculture Department Secretary Apurba Roy and senior officials were present during the meeting at the TIT office.
