By Firstdespatch Desk Jun 23, 2026
Agartala, June 23 (FD) Tripura Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Tuesday assured that there is no possibility of a drought-like situation in the state this year, citing the substantial rainfall already received during the ongoing monsoon season and the proactive measures undertaken by the Agriculture Department to safeguard crop production.
The minister made the statement after participating in a video conference chaired by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The meeting was attended by agriculture ministers, senior officials, and departmental secretaries from various states to review the national agricultural situation and preparedness for the Kharif season.
Speaking to reporters, Nath said the Union Agriculture Minister has been closely monitoring the country's agricultural outlook, particularly in view of concerns over potential weather disturbances associated with El Niño conditions. While India continues to maintain self-sufficiency in key sectors such as food grain production and fisheries, certain regions may experience weather-related challenges due to uneven rainfall distribution, prompting the Centre to emphasize preparedness and contingency planning.
Referring to forecasts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Nath said the northeastern states, including Tripura, are expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall during the current monsoon season. He noted that Tripura has already recorded more than 1,000 mm of rainfall, significantly reducing the likelihood of any drought conditions.
“Given the volume of rainfall received so far and the favourable monsoon forecast, there is no reason to anticipate a drought-like situation in Tripura,” the minister said.
He added that despite the encouraging rainfall scenario, the state government is taking no chances and has put in place several precautionary measures to ensure uninterrupted agricultural activities during the Kharif season.
According to Nath, the Agriculture Department has ensured adequate availability of quality seeds, fertilizers, and modern agricultural equipment across the state. Arrangements have also been made for protective irrigation in vulnerable areas to mitigate any unforeseen weather-related disruptions.
The minister further informed that officials are actively promoting cluster-based farming practices to enhance productivity and improve resource utilization, particularly in major crops such as paddy, pulses, and oilseeds.
Reiterating the government's commitment to farmers' welfare, Nath said the department remains vigilant and fully prepared to address any emerging climatic challenges while striving to maximize agricultural output and strengthen food security across the state during the ongoing Kharif cultivation season. FD JK