Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Saturday said agriculture remains the cornerstone of food security, environmental protection and rural economic development, stressing that creating a skilled agricultural workforce is essential for increasing food production, boosting farmers’ incomes and strengthening the rural economy.
The minister was addressing the 20th Foundation Day and 16th Graduation Day-2026 celebrations of Tripura Agriculture College at its auditorium in Lembucherra after inaugurating the programme.
Nath said the occasion marked not only the institution’s foundation but also two decades of knowledge, research, dedication and commitment to the agricultural sector. Describing agriculture as the foundation of civilisation rather than merely a profession, he said that while information technology, artificial intelligence, industries and space science represent the future, agriculture will continue to remain indispensable as it ensures food security, protects the environment and drives rural economic growth.
Highlighting the Centre’s vision, the minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, efforts are underway to transform India into the world's food basket. He added that India's vast human resources provide immense opportunities to further strengthen the agriculture and agri-based economy.
Recalling the journey of Tripura Agriculture College, Nath said the institution began in 2007 with just 19 students and has since evolved into a reputed centre for agricultural education and research. He credited the achievement to the dedication of the faculty, the hard work of students and the institution's continued commitment to academic excellence.
The minister further said that since 2014, the college has significantly expanded its academic, research and training activities. It now offers both B.Sc. (Honours) Agriculture and M.Sc. Agriculture programmes. Emphasising the growing employment potential in the sector, he noted that the state government has recruited 252 Agriculture Officers and 409 Agriculture Assistants in recent years under the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, creating employment opportunities for educated youth while strengthening the state's agricultural infrastructure.
Among those present at the programme were Professor Arun Bhai Patel, Dean of Tripura Fisheries College; Apurba Roy, Secretary of the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department; Dr. Akinchan Sarkar, Additional Finance Secretary; Dr. P. B. Jamatia, Director of the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department; and Professor Samir Kumar Seal, Registrar of Tripura University. Principal of Tripura Agriculture College Professor Dr. Debashis Sen delivered the welcome address, while Organising Secretary Dr. E. Reang proposed the vote of thanks. Selected Agriculture Officers were felicitated during the programme, and graduating students were awarded B.Sc. (Honours) Agriculture degrees.