Tripura Chief Minister’s proposed Rs 431.71 crore project aims to achieve regional self-reliance in milk, meat, eggs, and fish, boosting livestock and fisheries production to meet regional demand. Learn how Dr Manik Saha’s vision is likely to transform the Northeast’s agri-allied landscape.
Agartala (Tripura), May 31: Tripura along with other Northeast States is poised to become a powerhouse in livestock and fisheries production, with Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha announcing that a transformative Rs 431.71 crore project proposal was submitted to the North Eastern Council (NEC).
The proposed initiative aims to achieve self-sufficiency in milk, meat, eggs, and fish production, not only for Tripura but also to meet the growing demand across the Northeast.
Unveiled during a high-level Task Force meeting, held in virtual mode and chaired by Union Minister for the Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya Scindia, this plan signals a bold step toward positioning Tripura and Northeastern State as a leader in India’s animal husbandry and fisheries sectors.
The virtual meeting, the second in a series of DoNER-led discussions, brought together senior officials and ministers from the eight Northeastern states to strategize on transforming the region into a hub for livestock and fisheries production.
Today chaired the 2nd meeting of the High-level Task Force on attaining self- reliance in Milk, Fish, and Meat production in Northeast region in virtual mode at the VC room, Secretariat, Agartala.
In the meeting, held elaborate discussions with the Hon’ble CMs and officials of… pic.twitter.com/QoVW8uF18Y
— Prof.(Dr.) Manik Saha (@DrManikSaha2) May 30, 2025
Dr Manik Saha emphasized Tripura’s commitment to bridging the supply-demand gap for essential proteins, highlighting the critical role these sectors play in food security, nutrition, and rural economic development.
Livestock: Strengthening Veterinary and Production Infrastructure
A key component of Tripura’s proposal is the establishment of a state-of-the-art laboratory for animal disease diagnostics. Dr. Saha underscored the urgent need for advanced veterinary infrastructure to ensure the quality and safety of livestock products.
“A modern diagnostic facility will significantly enhance our ability to maintain high standards in animal husbandry,” he stated, appealing for central government support to bring this vision to life.
The Chief Minister also outlined several initiatives to boost dairy, poultry, and meat production. These include promoting artificial insemination with sex-sorted semen to improve dairy cattle breeds, strengthening dairy cooperative societies, and extending targeted support to women in poultry farming.
Additionally, Tripura is providing assistance to entrepreneurs under the National Livestock Mission (NLM) to foster sustainable animal husbandry enterprises.
A Vision for Regional and Global Markets
In a forward-thinking move, Dr Manik Saha proposed the creation of a high-quality pig breeding and processing unit in Tripura. This facility aims to produce superior pig breeds for domestic supply within the Northeast and for export to Southeast Asian markets.
This unit could position Tripura as a key player in the regional and international pork industry, he noted, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth.
Fisheries Development: A Multi-Pronged Approach
Tripura’s efforts to enhance fish production are equally ambitious. Under schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the Chief Minister Matsya Vikas Yojana, the state is investing in the renovation and scientific development of water bodies to boost aquaculture productivity.
Over the past five years, Tripura has allocated approximately Rs 50 crore from its budget for fisheries development, supplemented by Rs 76.4 crore from PMMSY funds. A separate Rs 816.5 crore proposal has been submitted to the NEC to achieve self-reliance in fish production and meet regional demand.
“These investments reflect our commitment to sustainable growth and nutritional security,” Dr. Saha said. “By modernizing our aquaculture infrastructure, we aim to ensure a steady supply of fish for Tripura and neighboring states.”
The virtual meeting saw participation from prominent regional leaders, including Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister T. Zeliang, alongside senior officials from Tripura, such as Dr. P.K. Chakraborty, Secretary to the Chief Minister; L.T. Darlong, Secretary of the Planning Department; Deepa D. Nair, Secretary of the Fisheries and Animal Resource Development Department; and Neeraj Kumar Chanchal, Director of the ARD Department.
A Roadmap for Regional Self-reliance
Sources in Animal Resource Development Department (ARDD) of Tripura said the DoNER-led consultation is expected to lay the foundation for an integrated regional development plan, fostering collaboration among Northeastern states to enhance livestock and fisheries production.
By prioritizing sustainable growth, nutritional security, and economic empowerment, Tripura’s initiatives align with the broader vision of transforming the Northeast into a self-reliant and prosperous region, experts opined.
As Tripura moves forward with its Rs 431.71 crore livestock and fisheries plan, the state is setting a precedent for innovation and collaboration in the Northeast.
With central support and regional cooperation, these efforts promise to reshape the agricultural landscape, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for Tripura and beyond.
