**Agartala, September 27:** Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Sunday said tourism had the potential to emerge as a major contributor to the state’s economy and generate additional employment and livelihood opportunities for its young population.
Saha made the remarks while speaking to reporters after attending a live listening programme of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 138th episode of *Mann Ki Baat* at Baishnabtilla Community Hall near Amtali bypass here.
Speaking on World Tourism Day, the Chief Minister said his government was working to strengthen tourism infrastructure, improve facilities and promote destinations across the state.
He said several temples, heritage sites and tourist attractions had been developed and renovated as part of efforts to boost tourism.
“Following the path shown by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we have developed and renovated various temples and heritage sites in Tripura. We are seeing the impact through an increase in tourist footfall,” Saha said.
The Chief Minister said increased tourist arrivals could contribute to economic activity, raise the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and create employment opportunities.
“Tourism has a major contribution to the economy, including revenue generation through GSDP and other sources. In many countries and regions, tourism has become a strong economic driver,” he said.
Saha said the government was also seeking to ensure that local communities benefited from the expansion of tourism by improving facilities and creating opportunities for people to participate in tourism-related activities.
He said skill development and training were being emphasised to equip local residents with the capabilities required to take up tourism-related work and benefit economically from the sector.
The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability for sustained development. He said economic and social progress, including the expansion of tourism, required a peaceful environment.
Saha said Tripura currently ranked second among the northeastern states in terms of GSDP.
The Chief Minister attended the *Mann Ki Baat* programme organised by the Badharghat Mandal of the BJP along with BJP MLA Mina Rani Sarkar and senior party leaders.
In a post on X on World Tourism Day, Saha highlighted Tripura’s natural beauty, heritage and cultural traditions and mentioned destinations such as Neermahal and the Jampui Hills as attractions for visitors.
He called for greater exploration and promotion of the state’s tourism potential.
