In a progressive move under the World Bank-funded Tripura Rural Economic Growth and Service Delivery Project (TRESP), the Horticulture Department of Tripura has launched the use of GIS (Geographic Information System) technology to enhance agricultural planning, monitoring, and service delivery—particularly benefiting tribal women farmers across 23 blocks.

This initiative highlights the Agriculture Component of TRESP, which aims to strengthen Producer Groups (PGs) through technology transfer, improved extension services, and modern cultivation practices. The department is working in mission mode under the inspiration and guidance of Dr. K. Sashi Kumar, Secretary, Tribal Welfare Department, and Dr. P.B. Jamatia, Director, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Department.

A one-day state-level training on GIS Mapping was organized on July 29 at the Directorate of Horticulture and Soil Conservation. TRESP officials from various districts participated in the session, which was facilitated by GIS Specialist Singhajit Naorem and expert Basanti Tripura. The program was coordinated with active leadership from Joint Director Manoj Debbarma and Agriculture Expert Subrata Shiv.

GIS technology will now enable real-time tracking of project implementation, particularly the establishment and activities of Farmer Field Schools. It will also help in effective geo-mapping of interventions and ensure timely support to women-led Producer Groups.

As part of the training, participants were taken to the field for practical exposure. Initial geo-mapping data from all 23 blocks is expected to be submitted within a week.

If successful, this pilot initiative is likely to be scaled up across other livelihood-based departments, further strengthening the impact of TRESP in rural Tripura, according to official sources.