Agartala, October 2: Former Union minister of state Pratima Bhoumik has sought the establishment of agricultural markets at several locations and improved mobile connectivity in remote areas of Tripura during a meeting with Union Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia.
Bhoumik raised the demands during a courtesy meeting with Scindia, seeking intervention to address infrastructure and connectivity-related issues affecting rural communities in the state.
She sought the establishment of agricultural markets at Tholibari and Bashpukur under Kathalia Block and at DM Colony and Amgachia in West Tripura district.
According to Bhoumik, the proposed markets would help farmers gain easier access to buyers and reduce their dependence on intermediaries for selling agricultural produce.
She said improved market infrastructure could also help farmers secure better access to organised markets and strengthen opportunities for rural communities dependent on agriculture.
Bhoumik also raised concerns over inadequate mobile network coverage in several interior areas of Sipahijala district, particularly under Mohanbhog Block.
She specifically mentioned Chandul, Jagatrampur, Kalikhola, Nidoya and Bhabanipur among the areas where residents continue to face connectivity-related difficulties.
Bhoumik said reliable mobile connectivity had become increasingly important for people living in remote habitations, particularly for accessing healthcare, education, emergency services and government facilities.
She urged the Centre to take necessary steps to identify connectivity gaps and strengthen telecom infrastructure in the affected areas.
In a separate representation, Bhoumik has sought a habitation- and para-wise assessment of connectivity in parts of Mohanbhog Block, noting that some settlements officially recorded as covered could still experience weak or intermittent network services.
She has also sought completion of mobile coverage for remaining habitations identified under the PM-JANMAN initiative, according to the report.
Bhoumik said improving communication infrastructure would help connect remote communities with essential services and opportunities.
The former minister expressed hope that the issues raised during the meeting would receive consideration from the Centre and lead to measures addressing the concerns of residents.
“Improved markets and better connectivity are not just conveniences—they are lifelines for rural communities. I am hopeful that the Centre’s cooperation will ensure these facilities reach the people quickly,” Bhoumik said.
The demands relate to two key areas — agricultural market access and digital connectivity — which Bhoumik said were important for improving livelihoods and access to essential services in rural and remote parts of Tripura.
She said timely implementation of the proposals could provide greater market access to farmers while improving communication facilities for residents of interior areas.
