Tripura Gears up for Monsoon as Food Minister Sushanta Chowdhury directs officials to ensure a steady supply of essential commodities during the season, addressing logistical challenges from the Barak River bridge repairs in Assam. Know how the state is tackling black marketing and price hikes to maintain food security.
Agartala, May 22, 2025 – Food Minister Sushanta Chowdhury has directed officials to maintain a steady supply of essential commodities as the monsoon season approaches and infrastructure challenges arise. During a meeting at the Secretariat conference hall, the minister instructed food department officials, Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), and market traders to proactively manage stock levels and ensure smooth distribution to consumers.
In a social media post, Sushanta Chowdhury said, “The monsoon season has arrived in the state. Due to the state’s geographical location, road connectivity is often disrupted during this period. To ensure that the prices of essential commodities, petroleum products, and LPG cylinder supplies remain stable during the monsoon, the state’s Food and Public Distribution Department has taken proactive measures”.
“The department is working diligently to prevent price hikes of essential goods due to transportation disruptions caused by natural calamities and to curb black marketing. With these concerns in mind, a high-level meeting was chaired today at Conference Hall No. 2 in the Secretariat to prepare in advance to avoid artificial shortages and price increases through black marketing during the monsoon season.” he added.
The directive comes in response to ongoing repairs on the Barak River bridge in Assam, which have forced goods vehicles to take a detour, adding approximately 32 kilometers to their routes. Minister Chowdhury emphasized the importance of preparedness to prevent disruptions in the supply chain, particularly with the monsoon season nearing. He also issued a stern warning against black marketing or unethical trade practices, stating that strict action would be taken against violators.
“There is no shortage of essential commodities in the state,” the minister assured, urging vigilance to maintain supply chain stability. The meeting included key stakeholders such as Special Secretary of the Food Department Debapriya Bardhan, Food Director Sumit Lodh, SDMs from Sadar, Jirania, and Mohanpur subdivisions, and representatives from various market committees.
The Food Department remains committed to ensuring that daily essentials remain accessible to consumers despite logistical challenges, reinforcing the state’s proactive approach to food security.
