Agartala: Tripura is taking significant strides in the adoption of hydroponic
farming technology, a method gaining popularity across India. Previously,
Tripura experimented with portable hydroponics, but efforts are now being made
to scale up and commercialize the initiative.
The focus is on creating larger setups tailored to farmers’ needs, with units
designed to be at least 500 square meters in size. This aligns with the minimum
size standard for hydroponic systems across India.
One such hydroponic unit in Tripura, spanning 560 square meters, is designed
primarily to cultivate leafy vegetables in high demand. Experts have noted that
the state’s changing climate, including instances of heavy rainfall and
flooding, underscores the importance of adopting climate-smart technologies like
hydroponics. While natural disasters like floods cannot be prevented, innovative
technologies can mitigate their impact on agriculture.
Rajib Ghosh, Deputy Director, Horticulture Research Center, Agartala, told ANI
that farmers will benefit from this initiative.
“The hydroponic that is being practised these days has become very popular in
many places in India. The hydroponic that was in Tripura a couple of years
before was portable and in small size. Now, to give a commercial shape or
exposure it has to be of big size which should have a minimum of 500 square
meters. So the return that will come from this area of cultivation or farming
will be very beneficial to the farmers and upgrade the financial conditions of
farmers,” Ghosh told ANI.
The hydroponic farming that has been created here is 560 square meters. In it,
we have more and more leafy vegetables like Letus ,Cirriander, Strawberry &
Flowers like Marigold which have high demand here.
The government of Tripura has supported this initiative under a scheme with an
initial investment of Rs 55 lakh. Though the initial costs appear high, the
returns are projected to outweigh the expenses significantly within three to
five years. The technology offers a sustainable solution for progressive farmers
in the state, many of whom have shown great enthusiasm for the project.
Hydroponics also presents a viable option for individuals with limited land
resources. By utilizing vertical farming techniques, such as vertical beds and
aeroponic systems, farmers can maximize productivity. This method not only
caters to household food needs but also creates opportunities for commercial
vegetable production, thereby strengthening the economic stability of the
farming community.
In response to recent floods in Tripura, the government has provided extensive
financial aid to affected farmers, reinforcing the state’s commitment to
agricultural resilience. The hydroponic initiative is expected to further
empower farmers by enabling them to overcome land constraints and meet growing
market demands, ensuring long-term financial growth and sustainability. (ANI)
Source link
