Agartala: Tripura University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) to promote lemongrass cultivation in the state under the Aroma Mission initiative.
The MoU was signed recently between Tripura University and the Union Ministry of Science and Technology’s Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to boost the cultivation of aromatic plants, particularly lemongrass, in the northeastern state.
The Aroma Mission, a flagship program of the CSIR, supports the cultivation of aromatic crops and the development of their associated industries.
Its goal is to provide sustainable livelihoods for farmers and boost India’s economy through the production of essential oils, fragrances, and other aromatic products.
Lemongrass, a versatile plant used widely in perfume, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, is a key crop in this initiative.
As per the agreement, Tripura University will collaborate with the CSIR to promote lemongrass cultivation among farmers in the state.
The university will provide technical support, training, and guidance to farmers interested in cultivating lemongrass.
The CSIR will offer financial assistance, quality planting materials, and market linkages to ensure the success of the initiative.
Shaon Ray Chaudhuri from the Department of Microbiology at Tripura University stated that the collaboration will offer crucial handholding support to lemongrass cultivators in the state. She added that this initiative is part of the ongoing DST-SEED project, which aims to develop sustainable livelihoods through science and technology.
Tripura offers immense potential for growing aromatic crops such as lemongrass, thanks to its favourable agro-climatic conditions.
ALSO READ: Tripura to recruit over 1,600 teachers to tackle staff shortage in government schools
The state government has been actively promoting these crops to diversify agriculture and provide farmers with alternative income sources. This new partnership between Tripura University and the CSIR is expected to significantly boost lemongrass cultivation across the state.
