Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has reiterated the state government’s dedication to preserving and promoting the unique cultural heritage and traditions of Tripura’s indigenous communities, aiming to bring their rich cultural practices to the national stage. Speaking at the Tripuri Cultural & Food Festival held at the ST Corporation Market in Agartala, Saha highlighted various government efforts to support the Janjati (tribal) population in the state.
“The Tripura government is committed to the welfare and development of the Janjati people. Events like this allow us to showcase the distinct food habits, dance forms, and cultural traditions of our indigenous communities. I am delighted to see such a celebration here today,” CM Saha stated. He emphasized the government’s commitment to preserving indigenous culture by providing artists with training and resources.
Saha also pointed out the central government’s initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who established a dedicated department for tribal affairs and has emphasized development in the North East. “Our administration mirrors this approach. We renamed the Tribal Welfare Department to the Janjati Kalyan Department, showing our respect for the Janjati community’s significance,” Saha said.
In a notable proposal, the chief minister announced that the state government has submitted a request to the central government to rename the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) to the Tipra Territorial Council. The proposal also includes increasing the council’s seats from 28 to 50 to ensure broader representation. He remarked that the renaming of the council and the expansion of seats would honor Tripura’s heritage while addressing the community’s evolving needs.
Saha underscored the state government’s attention to improving the quality of life for Janjati residents through infrastructural updates. He outlined plans for modernizing Janjati hostels, equipping them with sanitary pad vending machines, CCTV cameras, and internet facilities to enhance both safety and connectivity.
The event also saw the presence of BJP State President and MP Rajib Bhattacharya, former minister and MLA Rampada Jamatia, Janjati Kalyan Minister Bikas Debbarma, and Bipin Debbarma, President of the Maharani Tulsibati Welfare Trust, who expressed their support for the ongoing efforts to uplift the Janjati community.
The chief minister concluded by reinforcing his government’s commitment to tangible progress, stating, “We believe in action, not just promises. Tripura’s indigenous communities are integral to the state’s future, and we are here to support them in every way possible.”