Agartala, March 8 (NationPress) Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan emphasized the transformative measures initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the northeastern region during a speech at the 14th convocation of Tripura University. He noted that the past decade has seen remarkable advancements, especially in rail and air connectivity.

At the ceremony, Radhakrishnan remarked that enhanced connectivity and infrastructure improvements have significantly stimulated the economy of the Northeastern region, which consists of eight states.

Mentioning the recent foundation laying for the ambitious Rs 450-crore Matabari Tourism Circuit in Tripura by Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, and the inauguration of the revamped Mata Tripura Sundari Temple by the Prime Minister last September, he highlighted the surge in visitors to the temple.

He stated, "Previously, approximately 3.5 lakh devotees visited the Mata Tripura Sundari temple; following recent developments, this number has soared to around 8.5 lakh."

Prior to the convocation, the Vice President paid a visit to the temple in Udaipur and offered prayers. A post from his official X handle read, "Vice President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan visited the Mata Tripura Sundari temple in Udaipur today and prayed for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of all."

During his address, Radhakrishnan stated that the proposed tourism circuit, which includes the ancient rock-carving site of Chabimura—often dubbed the "Mini Amazon of India"—and Narkel Kunj on the banks of the expansive Dumboor Lake, will put Tripura on the global tourism map.

He urged the youth to avoid drug abuse, warning that it could jeopardize their futures and social lives, and encouraged them to maximize their time by dedicating themselves to education.

Radhakrishnan praised Tripura University as a dynamic hub for teaching, research, and innovation, asserting that the current generation is experiencing a historic period as the nation progresses rapidly towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

He described technology as a "game changer" and stressed its positive application, noting that perseverance and patience lead to success.

He also called on students to pursue research that leads to innovations benefiting national development.

Chief Minister Manik Saha commended Tripura University for attracting students and researchers from both within the state and beyond, highlighting the government's commitment to establishing additional universities in the state and connecting education to employment opportunities.

Saha emphasized that access to higher education would create opportunities for future generations. Reflecting on the university's history, he stated that Tripura University has played a pivotal role in developing the state's intellectual and human resources.

He characterized the university as an intellectual beacon for the region.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Saha extended his greetings to women worldwide.

Tripura Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu remarked that a developed India cannot be achieved without integrating indigenous knowledge with modern science and technology, asserting that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 signifies a crucial philosophical evolution in India's education framework.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Tripura University, Shaymal Das, and the Acting Registrar, Samir Kumar Shill, also addressed the audience.

Vice President Radhakrishnan, on his inaugural visit to three northeastern states—Nagaland, Mizoram, and Tripura—opened the ceremony at the university campus in Suryamaninagar. Previously, he had participated in the eighth convocation of Nagaland University in Kohima and the 20th convocation of Mizoram University in Aizawl.

A university official noted that the convocation ceremony had been postponed for the past two years—2024 and 2025. During the event, certificates, degrees, gold medals, and PhD degrees were awarded to eligible students.

In total, 283 students from various departments received gold medals, while 149 research scholars were recognized with PhD degrees.

Established in October 1987, Tripura University became a Central University on July 2, 2007, via the Tripura University Act, 2006, enacted by Parliament. Currently, it is affiliated with 64 colleges.

After the convocation, Radhakrishnan interacted with several 'Lakhpati Didis' and members of Self Help Groups (SHGs) at the International Trade and Fair Centre near the city. He will also pay tribute to martyred soldiers at the Albert Ekka Memorial Park.