Tripura is a unique semi-hilly state in the Northeast region of India, surrounded on three sides by international borders, and home to a diverse mix of tribal cultures, natural resources, and religious groups. In order to promote Tripura as a ‘go-to’ business destination, the state successfully conducted an event titled, “Showcasing Tripura at Varanasi” on  Friday.The occasion was used to display its famous GI tagged, organic Tripura Queen Pineapple and a variety of other Agri-Horti produces alongside its rich Handloom and Handicraft industry, Tourism, Rubber and Bamboo produce.

The event was supported by seven departments of Tripura including the  Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Tribal Welfare Department, Forest Department, Industry Department, Handloom and Handicraft, and Tourism Department. It was executed by North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC), a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest of the event Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister  Ratan Lal Nath reiterated the state government’s commitment to promote local produce, artisans, and the land as such. He talked about the need to GI certify the unique produce and products to preserve and promote tradition. Talking about the focus of the government, he said that it was essential for the rest of India and the world to recognize the potential of the state both in terms of produce,  product availability and its geography. The state is promoting innovation, food processing and allied industries and making it tourist friendly and accessible.

The event was also graced by Ravindra Jaiswal, Minister of State (Independent Charge) - Stamp and Court Fees and Registration Department of Uttar Pradesh government, Ashok Tiwari, Mayor of Varanasi, and Saurabh Srivastava, MLA Varanasi Cantt as guest of honour, Apurva Roy, secretary of Agriculture, government of Tripura, UK Chakma, Secretary Tourism and PL Agarwal, Additional PCCF, and a host of other senior officials from Tripura and Uttar Pradesh governments also graced the event.

Commodore Rajiv Ashok (Retd), Managing Director NERAMAC, in his welcome address expressed and shared the idea behind the event. He said that the reason for choosing this location outside the Northeast Region was the rich heritage that the city portrays, its recognition as a promoter of a vibrant handloom and handicraft industry, and naturally being an important cultural centre and an emerging commercial hub in the region.

The event also saw a Buyer-Seller meet with over 50 buyers participating. They represented a cross-section of fields ranging from agri-horti sector, tourism, perfume to handloom and handicraft. The interest and intent to do business with Tripura by these buyers was the most important take-away of the event and is sure to see linkages being established in the coming months.