Silchar: Concluding a four-day tour of the Barak Valley, Assam Chief Secretary Dr. Ravi Kota, reviewed key agricultural and social development initiatives in Cachar, with a special focus on pineapple cultivation and tea garden labourer rehabilitation.

Dr. Kota began his visit in Hmarkhawlein, Lakhipur, where he assessed the region’s flourishing pineapple plantations. Interacting with farmers and officials, he stressed the need for high-quality, year-round production and called for stronger value chains to boost farmers’ incomes.

He encouraged the setting up of a pineapple processing unit by aggregating produce from Cachar, nearby districts, and neighbouring states, and urged collaboration between Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) and reputed private players.

At the office of Hmar Agro Organic Producer Company Ltd., Dr. Kota held discussions with the Board of Directors and members of the FPC. He emphasized working in tandem with the district administration to harness the region’s agro-industry potential.

Among those present were Cachar District Commissioner Mridul Yadav, District Agriculture Officer Dr. A R Ahmed; Assistant Commissioner Lakhyajyoti Gogoi, and senior agriculture officers Dr. R Chakraborty and Dr. N C Das. Representatives from the Hmar Supreme House and Hmar Students’ Association also participated.

Later in the day, the Chief Secretary visited Lalbagh near the proposed Doloo Greenfield Airport site to review the progress of constructing 173 houses for rehabilitating displaced tea garden labourers. He inspected key infrastructure aspects like electrification, water supply, and basic amenities, underscoring the importance of ensuring dignified living standards. He was accompanied by Mridul Yadav, ADC Dr. Khaleda Sultana Ahmed; and Assistant Commissioner Lakshyajeet Gogoi.

Before departing, Dr. Kota praised the synergy between the farming community and the district administration. “Cachar has immense potential for quality pineapple cultivation and agro-based industries,” he said.

Dr. Kota’s visit underlined the Assam Government’s sustained focus on agriculture, industry, and social upliftment in the Barak Valley, marking a strategic step forward in realizing the region’s developmental aspirations.