Tripura, 09 Jan 2026: The Tripura government is setting up an integrated Agarwood (Agar) cluster under the PM DevINE project at a cost of ₹27.42 crore. The cluster will include nursery, plantation, distillation facilities and skill development training to strengthen the Agarwood industry. More than 7,000 people, especially women and youth of the state, are expected to benefit from this initiative.
Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha announced this while inaugurating the two-day 5th International Agarwood Conclave and Buyer-Seller Meet at Pragya Bhavan in Agartala on Tuesday.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the name “Agartala” is closely linked with Agar trees, as the region once had an abundance of Agar plantations. The Tripura royal family named the capital after these trees. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi often inquires about Agar cultivation in Tripura during their meetings and has referred to the North Eastern states as the “Ashta Lakshmi” of India.
The Chief Minister highlighted that around 96 percent of Agar trees in India are found in the North Eastern states, and Tripura has already been recognized as the second largest Agarwood producing state in the country, with nearly 1.5 crore Agar trees. He informed that the construction of an Agarwood market at Kadamtala in Dharmanagar is almost complete, where buyers and sellers will be able to trade Agar products.
He further stated that an International Agar Trade and Research Centre is being developed with ₹15 crore support from the North Eastern Council, which will soon become a hub for research and trade. The state government is also working with the central government to create a single-window online platform for exporters.
Welcoming international trade delegates attending the conclave, the Chief Minister assured Agar farmers of the government’s continuous support. He expressed hope that Agar cultivation would play a significant role in achieving inclusive prosperity and that Tripura’s Agarwood would once again lead the country’s Agar trade. He described Agar as a royal symbol and one of the most valuable natural assets of the state. The Chief Minister also invited delegates from other states and countries to explore Tripura’s natural beauty and tourism destinations.
Speaking as the chief guest, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma said that Tripura’s climate is highly suitable for Agar cultivation and stressed the need to encourage more people to take up Agar farming. He emphasized scientific training and assured full government support for establishing Agar-based industries in the state. He also urged outside investors to invest in Agar-based production using Tripura’s raw materials.
Among the distinguished speakers were Smt. Srivarny, DG of Foreign Trade, Department of Industries and Commerce; Anshuman Dey, Joint Secretary, PM DevINE and NERAMAC; PCCF R.K. Shyaml; and Sushil Kumar Awasthi, Special Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. The vote of thanks was delivered by Ishantar Shobhapandit, Regional Director, Indian Chamber of Commerce.
After the inaugural session, the Chief Minister, Forest Minister and other dignitaries visited stalls displaying various products made from Agarwood outside Pragya Bhavan.
