Tripura is a small hilly and landlocked State in the North East Region of India with very poor communication facilities. The economy of the State is basically agarian and more than 70% population depends on Agriculture for their livelihood. The State of Tripura with a geographical area of 10,491 sq. km. is predominantly hilly. It is surrounded on all sides by deltaic basin of Bangladesh except for a small part in North East which adjoins Karimganj District of Assam and Mizoram.Location: Tripura is situated between 22°57¢ and 24°82¢ North latitudes and 91°10¢ and 92°22¢ East longitudes with the tropic of cancer passing through it. Tripura is by and large a hilly terrain with small hills and hillocks cress-crossing the valleys.

 

Climate & Rainfall: The State of Tripura enjoys a typical monsoonal climate with variations ranging from sub-tropical to temperate conditions in hilly areas. The rapid change in topography results in significant climate changes within a short distance. The climate of Tripura exhibits a strong seasonal rhythm. The year being divisible to four characteristic seasons namely Winter (Dec ~ Feb), Premonsoon (March ~ April), Monsoon (May ~ September) and Post monsoon (Oct ~ Nov). The Monsoon period lasting for about 5 months from May to September is the longest season of the State. June is the wettest month followed by July & May. The average annual rainfall in the state is 2100 mm. The maximum and minimum temperatures during winter are 27°C & 24°C respectively. The maximum and minimum relative humidity for the atmosphere (at 10.00 am) are 85% & 57% during the months of July and January respectively.

 

Soils:  In general soils of Tripura are classified into two categories – upland & lowland General fertility of the soil of the State is medium. The soil varies in reaction from very strong to strong acidic with medium organic matter content and low available phosphorus and potash contents. The _P H varies from 4.85 to 5.8 Soil texture varies from sandy clay loam to clay loam. Ground water potential is good in valley fills, dissected mounds and certain part of denudational hills. The organic carbon content is medium.

 

Land Use Pattern: The total area under forest being 6,06,168 ha (about 58% of the total geographical area), forestry makes the dominant land use class in the State. It is followed by the Agriculture. The areas under different land uses are:-