Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha criticized the previous Left Front government for neglecting and damaging the tourism sector. He highlighted the positive impact of policy decisions and infrastructure initiatives by the current BJP government, leading to increased foreign tourist visits in the state. Saha laid the foundation stone for the Tripura Heritage Village and Sangeet Experience development under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme, alongside launching an amusement park in West Tripura’s Jirania.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has acknowledged Tripura’s progress on various national platforms. Saha mentioned that Tripura has seen a rise in foreign tourist arrivals, ranking second in Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth and per capita income among Northeastern states. He emphasized the state’s development trajectory and recognition by NITI Aayog as a front-runner state.
Saha contrasted the previous regime’s approach, noting their lack of belief in development ceremonies. In contrast, he emphasized the current government’s commitment to sustainable development aligned with nature under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. The government’s focus includes infrastructure, agriculture, tourism development, empowering women through initiatives like ‘Lakhpati Didi,’ and supporting Self-Help Groups.
The Chief Minister highlighted the direct benefits of tourism projects for the people of Sachindranagar, including planned facilities like log huts and homestays. Initiatives like the ‘Unity Promo Fest’ have fostered unity and raised awareness about Tripura’s tribal culture. Saha also mentioned efforts to promote the state’s tea industry through tourism projects and new policies supporting tea gardens.
Saha criticized the previous government for overlooking tourism as an industry, emphasizing the current administration’s recognition of tourism’s economic significance. He mentioned plans for a dedicated Tourist Police force to enhance visitor safety at key tourism sites, potentially formed from special executive personnel. The construction of Hindu Shakti Peethas in Tripura’s Gomati district is expected to boost spiritual tourism in the region.
