By News On Air Jul 19, 2026
Agartala, July 19 (FD) Livelihood initiatives supported by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) are transforming the socio-economic conditions of tribal farming communities in Tripura through sustainable agriculture, farmer collectives and income-generation programmes.
Much of the foundation for these community-based initiatives was laid during the tenure of former NABARD General Manager Loken Das, whose focus on integrated rural development led to the launch of several projects that continue to expand across the state.
A key success story is the Bagma Agri Producer Company Limited (BAPCL), a NABARD-promoted Farmers Producer Organisation (FPO). The FPO has diversified beyond conventional farming into financial literacy, integrated farming, fisheries, livestock development, value-chain promotion and livelihood enhancement, enabling farmers to access institutional support, adopt improved farming practices and strengthen market linkages.
Another notable initiative is underway at Thakurachhara ADC Village in Dhalai district, where tribal farmer Kukila Chakma has developed a one-acre orchard under NABARD's Integrated Tribal Development Programme (ITDP) financed through the Tribal Development Fund (TDF). Implemented with technical support from Seven Sisters Development Assistance (SeSTA), the project combines plantation development with scientific farming practices to create sustainable and climate-resilient livelihoods.
Besides financial assistance, beneficiaries receive technical guidance, training, field demonstrations and regular monitoring to improve productivity and natural resource management. NABARD officials said the TDF aims to convert small tribal landholdings into productive assets through orchard development, soil conservation and diversified farming systems, ensuring stable income, food security and environmental sustainability.
Under the leadership of Tanushree Bhattacharyya, General Manager of NABARD's Tripura Regional Office, the institution has intensified efforts to strengthen FPOs, expand livelihood projects, promote rural infrastructure and improve access to institutional finance.
Tripura Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha, during NABARD's 45th Foundation Day celebrations earlier this week, acknowledged the institution's contribution to inclusive growth, agricultural development and sustainable livelihoods across the state.
With continued investment in institution-building and community-led development, NABARD's initiatives are emerging as a key driver of inclusive rural growth in Tripura and a potential model for the North-East. FD JK