Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya M Scindia is set to lay the foundation stone for the Agar Cluster Processing Centre at Baragole in North Tripura district on January 24. Officials have revealed that the project, which carries an estimated budget of Rs 27.42 crore, marks the first national-level initiative launched under the PM-DevINE scheme and will be implemented in Kadamtala, situated along the Tripura-Assam border. This initiative aims to benefit over 7,000 women and young entrepreneurs.
The Agar Cluster Processing Centre is expected to create new job opportunities for local farmers, youth, and self-help groups. It aims to modernize and organize the agarwood industry, contributing to economic growth in the region. The project will include facilities for plantations, nursery development, distillation, and skill training to enhance Tripura’s agarwood sector. Notably, Northeast India accounts for nearly 96% of the country’s agar trees, with Tripura being the second-largest producer, hosting around 1.5 crore agar trees.
Chief Minister Manik Saha stated that the project would significantly bolster rural and forest-based economies while emphasizing Tripura’s cultural and historical connection to agarwood. The name Agartala itself is derived from the abundance of agar trees in the area in its past. The historical significance of agarwood in Tripura is evident in the royal family’s decision to name the capital after it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed a keen interest in the cultivation of agar during his visits to the state.
Additionally, an agarwood market in Kadamtala is nearing completion, aiming to simplify direct trade between buyers and sellers. The North Eastern Council has allocated Rs 15 crore for an International Agar Trade and Research Centre. To enhance export processes, the state government is collaborating with the Centre to establish a single-window online platform for exporters.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/scindia-to-lay-foundation-as-tripura-eyes-economy-boost-with-agar-cluster/articleshow/126846704.cms
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Publish Date: 2026-01-20 23:42:00
