Tripura: Modi means development, says Tripura CM Manik Saha

Agartala: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Saturday said the term “Modi” has become synonymous with development over the years.

“The government of Tripura is committed to accelerating development and improving public services and hence Tripura has emerged as one of the leading states in governance and reforms under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The prime minister’s name has become synonymous to development. Under his leadership a wave of development has swept each and every corner of the state,” he said.

Saha made the remarks after laying the foundation stone of a modern building for Vidyasagar Bazar at Belonia. He said the project will cost over Rs 21 crore. He added that the project will boost local trade, business activities, and the overall economy of the area.

The chief minister said the government dedicated projects worth about Rs 58 crore to the public on the day. This included inaugurated works worth around Rs 18 crore. It also included foundation stones for projects valued at about Rs 40 crore.

Saha said Tripura has gained national recognition for its development initiatives and reforms. He highlighted the state’s top ranking in deregulation and further noted that Tripura continues to achieve key milestones while implementing policies as promised. Moreover, he added that Prime Minister Modi has encouraged leaders from other states to visit Tripura to observe firsthand how officials execute development projects on the ground.

Referring to governance achievements, Saha said Tripura has received 347 awards in recent years. He described the achievement as unprecedented for the state. He added that the government remains accountable to the people and continues to focus on fulfilling its commitments.

On social initiatives, the chief minister said the government will set up de-addiction centres in the district. He added that the state budget has earmarked funds to establish such centres in every district. He said the government will spend around Rs 20 crore on each de-addiction centre.

Highlighting the education sector, Saha said the government is working to strengthen schools and improve learning outcomes. He referred to the shortage of teachers following the retrenchment of 10,323 teachers in the past. Furthermore, he said the government will appoint qualified and deserving candidates through the Teachers’ Eligibility Test (TET). Also added that political considerations will not override merit in recruitment.

Citing the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024, Saha said only 44 per cent of students retained learning outcomes of the second standard. He stressed that the government will not compromise on the quality of education. He said schools must function as centres of learning and character building.

The chief minister also said Tripura has emerged as the third fully literate state in the country, after Mizoram and Goa. He said the achievement reflects sustained efforts in the education sector.