Synopsis
Tripura's CM Manik Saha announced the initiation of projects worth Rs 1,400 crore funded by the World Bank to uplift tribal communities, asserting that prior administrations ignored their welfare. The focus on cultural preservation and socio-economic enhancement marks a significant shift in governance.Key Takeaways
- Rs 1,400 crore projects funded by World Bank.
- Focus on Janajati welfare and development.
- Commitment to preserve tribal culture and traditions.
- Significant contributions to tribal communities in Tripura.
- Recognition of tribal leaders with Padma Shri Awards.
Agartala, April 14 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, has announced that substantial projects and programs totaling Rs 1,400 crore, backed by the World Bank, are actively being implemented to enhance the socio-economic conditions of the indigenous tribes. He emphasized that previous governments overlooked their welfare.
During the inauguration of the five-day 51st state-level Bizu Mela at Chawmanu in Dhalai District on Sunday night, the Chief Minister mentioned that an agreement was signed earlier, leading to the World Bank's contribution of Rs 1,400 crore for the economic upliftment of tribal communities.
The funds will be allocated under the Tripura Rural Economic Growth and Service Delivery Project (TRESP) to further improve the livelihoods and overall socio-economic conditions of the Janajati (tribal) population, according to CM Saha.
With tribals making up one-third of Tripura's total population of four million, they play a crucial role in various sectors, including electoral politics.
“We must commit to addressing the unmet needs and unfinished work in the upcoming year, ensuring we advance the development of our state,” the Chief Minister stated.
He noted that different tribal communities celebrate various festivals such as Bizu by the Chakma, Boisu by the Tripuri, Garia by the Jamatia, and Gajan and Naba Barsha by the non-tribal Bengali populace, with these traditions being honored year after year.
“There are 19 Janajati communities in Tripura. The current state government's primary goal is to safeguard the culture, traditions, customs, and history of the Janajati people. We cannot allow these elements to fade away. I am particularly pleased to learn that the Chakma community has developed their own script, which is a significant achievement,” CM Saha remarked.
He pointed out that earlier administrations neglected the Janajati communities, but under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, they have experienced notable development. Seven tribal individuals from Tripura have received Padma Shri Awards in various fields, and numerous initiatives have been introduced to honor the legacy of the royal Manikya Dynasty.
The Chief Minister also chaired a meeting focused on the aspirational district of Dhalai, reviewing ongoing development projects within a district that has a significant tribal population. “I found that aspirational districts are performing better than others across various parameters,” he noted.
As in previous years, the Bizu Mela Development Society is hosting the Bizu festival for five days to celebrate and promote the traditions, culture, and customs of the Chakma community.
“I am pleased that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shared his message for the Bizu festival. On behalf of the state, I wish to congratulate PM Modi. We are bidding farewell to this year while welcoming the Bengali New Year at the end of Chaitra,” CM Saha concluded.
During the event, notable attendees included state Industries and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma, BJP MLA Sambhu Lal Chakma, Dhalai District Magistrate Saju Vaheed A, Dhalai SP Mihir Lal Das, and others.
