Why Did the Tripura Government Choose 75 Border Villages to Honor Freedom Fighters?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Tripura's Chief Minister announced the selection of 75 border villages to honor freedom fighters, following PM Modi's advice. This initiative aims to create memorials and statues, ensuring these heroes are remembered. Join us as we explore the rich legacy of Maharaja Bir Bikram and the ongoing efforts for inclusive growth in Tripura.
Key Takeaways
- 75 border villages selected to honor freedom fighters.
- Memorials and statues will be erected.
- Maharaja Bir Bikram's legacy is pivotal to modern Tripura.
- Efforts towards inclusive growth highlighted.
- Agartala Airport's historical significance noted.
Agartala, Aug 19 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, announced on Tuesday that following the directive of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state government has identified 75 border villages to honor the memory of freedom fighters and warriors who laid down their lives for the nation and its populace.
While speaking at the main event commemorating the 117th birth anniversary of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, the Chief Minister remarked that PM Modi is the first leader in India’s history who considers every citizen and is dedicated to providing recognition and respect to those who have greatly contributed to the country.
“We will erect various memorials and statues of these 75 freedom fighters and warriors in the selected border villages, allowing the public to pay respects to these remarkable individuals,” he stated.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur was the visionary behind the modern advancements in Tripura, underscoring his crucial contributions to the state’s infrastructure, education, healthcare, and marketplaces.
“His foresighted legacy continues to inspire us as we endeavor to create a model Tripura. Over the past seven years, our administration has been tirelessly working towards fostering inclusive growth, peace, and progress,” he added.
He also mentioned that in 1942, Bir Bikram established Agartala airport to enhance air connectivity between the state and the rest of India. The king also recognized the immense literary contributions of Rabindranath Tagore by bestowing upon him the title of 'Bharat Bhaskar' in 1941, Saha remarked.
Just a month before Tagore's passing, King Bir Bikram, along with other royal figures, visited Viswa Bharati in Santiniketan (West Bengal) to honor Tagore with the title.
Historian and author Pannalal Roy noted that the land for Agartala, Kailashahar, and several other now-defunct airports in Tripura was donated by the former Tripura monarchs.
“During World War II, King Bir Bikram provided support to the Allied forces, particularly Great Britain, by deploying a contingent from the Tripura Army. This led to the construction of airports like Agartala and Kailashahar to aid the Allied powers,” Roy, who has penned numerous works on Tripura's royal lineage, informed IANS.
He recounted that in 1943, Agartala airport was bombed twice by Japanese fighter planes.
Situated 20 km north of the capital, Agartala Airport, previously known as Singerbill Airport, was renamed in July 2018 by the Union government in honor of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur.
This airport, constructed in 1942 on land donated by the king, served as a technical base for the Royal Air Force during the Second World War.
On January 4, 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new integrated terminal of the MBB Airport, which had a construction cost of Rs 438 crore.
Point of View
I believe this initiative not only serves to honor those who fought valiantly for our freedom but also reinforces the need for collective remembrance. The government's efforts to recognize contributions from the past are essential in fostering unity and respect within our diverse nation. It is imperative that we continue to learn from our history as we strive towards a progressive future.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of selecting 75 border villages in Tripura?
The selection aims to honor freedom fighters and warriors who sacrificed their lives for the nation, ensuring their contributions are recognized and remembered.
Who advised the Tripura government to undertake this initiative?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi advised the Tripura government to pay tribute to the freedom fighters through this initiative.
What memorials will be built in the border villages?
Various memorials and statues of the 75 freedom fighters and warriors will be constructed in the selected border villages.
What was Maharaja Bir Bikram's contribution to Tripura?
Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur played a crucial role in modernizing Tripura, establishing infrastructure, education, and healthcare during his reign.
When was Agartala Airport established?
Agartala Airport was built in 1942 and was later used as a technical base for the Royal Air Force during World War II.
