Agartala, December 30: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Monday emphasized the strategic importance of the North Eastern states in elevating India’s economy from the fifth-largest to the third position globally.
Quoting Union Home Minister Amit Shah and who was hear a week ago for the crucial NEC Plenary session, Saha highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had termed the region as ‘Ashta Laxmi’—a symbol of prosperity—and noted that it is double the size of Uttar Pradesh and next few years this region is going to witness economic boom.
Speaking at a program for the distribution of blankets and winter wear in his Town Bordowali constituency in capital Agartala, Saha asserted that since 2014, under Modi’s leadership, the region has witnessed rapid development after decades of neglect.
He credited improved connectivity and the geo-strategic position of the Northeast as key drivers for its economic potential in the coming years.
Saha underscored that peace is a prerequisite for development and accused “conspirators” of attempting to disrupt the harmony in the state.
Without naming anyone, he referred to recent incidents at Gandatwisa, Ranirbazar, and North Tripura, where attempts were made to incite communal violence. However, he praised the swift action taken by the administration to prevent any escalation, ensuring stability in the region.
Taking a dig at the previous Left Front government, Saha accused them of intentionally keeping the state backward and politically disturbed for decades.
He claimed that his government has focused on delivering good governance marked by transparency, accountability, and development across all sectors, including education, healthcare, rural growth, economic prosperity, and law enforcement.
Saha reiterated his commitment to maintaining peace and law and order, adding that occasional incidents may occur, but what matters is how the administration handles them.
He urged the public to judge the government based on data and results rather than baseless allegations by the opposition.
Addressing criticism from opposition parties about law and order issues, Saha pointed out that Tripura has the third-lowest crime rate in the country, as per data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) of union Home Ministry.
He argued that this low crime rate has increased investor confidence and contributed to a rise in tourist footfall, further boosting the state’s economy.
He dismissed the opposition’s attempts to question the government’s achievements, asserting that development and governance under the BJP-led administration have been transformative and will continue to uplift Tripura’s socio-economic status.
Saha concluded by urging people to remain vigilant against those attempting to disturb peace and to support the government’s mission to make Tripura a model state for growth, connectivity, and prosperity.
