In a strategic move to achieve self-sufficiency in mango production with premium varieties, the State Horticulture Research Station (SHRS) in Tripura has established an exotic mango block. This initiative aims to evaluate the performance, adaptability, and yield potential of various high-value mango types under the state's agro-climatic conditions.
Exotic Mango Varieties Introduced
Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced that the exotic mango block features superior varieties such as Yellow Banana, Doc-Mai, Red Palmer, Bari-4, Brunei King, Haribhanga, Katimon, Thai-1 Red, and others. The primary goal is to identify their feasibility for large-scale cultivation and lay the groundwork for producing quality seedlings to support future expansion.
Role of SHRS in Horticultural Research
The minister emphasized that SHRS is a leading research institution in Tripura, engaged in applied research on horticultural crops including fruits, vegetables, coconut, betel nut, cashew nut, spices, potatoes (ARC and IPS), mushrooms, tissue culture, and macro-propagation. Originally, the center focused on introducing and conserving germplasm for crops such as coconut, betel nut, red oil palm, cashew nut, pepper, and banana.
Spanning approximately 15 hectares, the unit houses a diverse collection of native and exotic fruit species. Its primary objectives include introducing and popularizing high-yielding, climate-resilient varieties, conserving and evaluating fruit germplasm, and developing modern technologies to enhance productivity, quality, sustainability, and profitability.
Vegetable Innovation Unit
Speaking about the vegetable innovation unit, Nath stated that it has been established within SHRS to develop advanced vegetable production technologies. The unit focuses on promoting off-season vegetable cultivation, such as summer cauliflower, enabling farmers to meet market demands during peak periods. It also aims to conserve local germplasm like Surji and Bird's Eye chilli, along with Shingaratha brinjal, paving the way for future improved variety development programs.
Promotion of Yellow-Skinned Watermelon
The minister further mentioned efforts to promote yellow-skinned watermelon cultivation as a high-value alternative to red-skinned watermelon. This move could potentially create new market opportunities and enhance farmers' economic benefits.
Success in Potato Production
Applauding the success, Nath highlighted a significant productivity increase of nearly 90%, reaching 5,888 kg per hectare. Between 2023-24 and 2025-26, five new potato varieties—Kufri Moin, Kufri Himalini, Kufri Uday, Kufri Lima, and Kufri Thar-12—have been cultivated.
This comprehensive approach by the SHRS is expected to transform Tripura's horticulture sector, making it more sustainable and profitable for farmers.
