GG News Bureau
Agartala 22 January:Chief Minister Manik Saha on Wednesday underlined the importance of unity and peace in accelerating Tripura’s overall development, asserting that harmony among people is the foundation of his government’s vision of building an “Ek Tripura, Srestha Tripura”.
Addressing the Statehood Day celebrations at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan after inaugurating the programme, the Chief Minister said socio-economic growth and lasting peace remain the top priorities of the state government. He noted that observing Statehood Day is not merely ceremonial but serves as a reminder to guide development in the right direction while preserving social harmony.
“Only through unity, cooperation and mutual respect can Tripura progress. Peace and social stability are essential to sustain the momentum of development,” Saha said, stressing that inclusive growth is impossible without collective effort.
During the event, the Chief Minister read out a message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which the Prime Minister reiterated the national resolve to build a developed and self-reliant India by 2047. Saha said the Tripura government is aligning its policies and programmes with this broader national vision.
Reflecting on Tripura’s historical journey, Saha recalled the crucial role played by Maharani Kanchanprabha Devi during the state’s integration with the Indian Union. Following the death of Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya on May 17, 1947, a Council of Regency was formed under her leadership. On August 13, 1947, she signed the instrument of consent for Tripura’s association with India. Later, on September 9, 1949, she signed the instrument of accession in Delhi, leading to Tripura’s formal merger with the Indian Union on October 15, 1949.
The Chief Minister paid tribute to all those who contributed to Tripura attaining full statehood and shaping its democratic journey.
Highlighting recent achievements, Saha said that since the BJP government assumed office in 2018, Tripura has made significant progress across multiple sectors, including agriculture, education, healthcare, industrial infrastructure, women empowerment, public security and self-reliance. He added that Tripura currently ranks second among Northeastern states in terms of Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and per capita income.
Saha also claimed that Tripura is recognised as the country’s only digital state and has received 347 awards at various levels for effective implementation of development programmes. The state has also secured the top position in deregulation, he said.
Emphasising women empowerment, the Chief Minister noted that more than 1.08 lakh women have become ‘Lakhpati Didis’ through Self-Help Groups, with over 54,000 women SHGs actively functioning across the state. He added that special focus is being given to the socio-economic upliftment of tribal communities.
On the occasion, six eminent personalities were honoured with State Citizen Awards, while 11 others received Statehood Day Awards for their contributions in various fields. Several ministers and senior officials were present at the programme.
