Hon’ble Minister Ratan Lal Nath Visits NBIRT Arkaneer, Commends Renewable Energy and Skill Development Initiatives

NB Institute for Rural Technology (NBIRT) Arkaneer had the privilege of welcoming Mr. Ratan Lal Nath, Hon’ble Minister of Power, Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Election, Government of Tripura, on 2nd April 2026. The visit highlighted the institute’s ongoing commitment to renewable energy education, skill development, and sustainable technology promotion.

During his visit, the Hon’ble Minister interacted with trainees enrolled in the Solar PV Installation Helper Training Programme conducted under TREDA and Skill Development, Government of Tripura. He took keen interest in understanding the structure of the training programme, including the course modules, duration of training, hostel facilities, practical exposure, and overall skill development activities being provided to the participants.

An interactive session was conducted where Mr. P.L. Ghosh, Technical Advisor of NBIRT Arkaneer, briefed the Hon’ble Minister about the institute’s various initiatives and activities in the renewable energy sector. The Minister was also introduced to several innovative installations and technologies developed and demonstrated by the institute, including the Solar Dryer, Solar E-Rickshaw, and the Bamboo Torchlight. A Bamboo Torchlight was ceremonially handed over to the Hon’ble Minister on behalf of the institute.

Impressed by the institute’s efforts and infrastructure, the Hon’ble Minister expressed his appreciation for NBIRT Arkaneer’s role in promoting renewable energy technologies and empowering youth through technical skill development. During discussions with institute officials, he assured that efforts would be undertaken to convert the electric supply system of NBIRT Arkaneer into a solar-based power system, reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustainability and clean energy adoption.

In a significant gesture of encouragement towards the trainees, the Hon’ble Minister sanctioned financial support of Rs. 2,000 per trainee for the distribution of essential toolkits to all 34 trainees enrolled in the programme. This initiative is expected to strengthen practical learning opportunities and support trainees in their future professional careers.

The visit concluded on a highly positive note, with the Hon’ble Minister appreciating the institute’s contributions to skill development and sustainable energy promotion. Before concluding the visit, he also expressed his interest in learning more about NBIRT and its founder, Hony. Prof. (Dr.) S.P. Gon Chaudhuri, and conveyed his desire to interact with Dr. Gon Chaudhuri in Kolkata at a mutually convenient time.