Agartala: Tripura is poised to witness significant strides in the socio-economic well-being of its Janajati communities, as Chief Minister Manik Saha announced the operationalization of a ₹1400 crore World Bank-funded project. The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated that this substantial financial backing aims to enhance the livelihoods and overall socio-economic status of the state’s indigenous population.
The announcement coincided with the inauguration of the 51st State Level Bizu Mela at Lamindar Para, Chawmanu, in the Dhalai district, where Chief Minister Saha extended his greetings for the Chakma community’s five-day Bizu festival. He conveyed his happiness that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had sent a message on the occasion of the Bizu festival, reciprocating with congratulations from the state. Reflecting on the outgoing year and the approaching new year at the end of Chaitra, CM Saha urged a collective pledge to address pending tasks and collaboratively work towards the state’s development in the coming year.
Chief Minister Saha highlighted the harmonious cultural mosaic of Tripura, mentioning the simultaneous celebrations of Bizu by the Chakmas, Bihu by the Assamese, Boisu by the Tripuri people, Garia by the Jamatia community, and Gajan and Naba Barsha by the Bengali population. He underscored the state government’s primary objective of preserving the unique culture, tradition, and history of Tripura’s 19 Janajati communities, emphasizing the importance of preventing their erosion. Expressing his delight, he acknowledged and thanked the Chakma community for the introduction of their own script, recognizing its significance.
Contrasting the present with the past, CM Saha asserted that previous administrations had overlooked the welfare of the Janajati people. He credited Prime Minister Modi’s tenure for ushering in significant development for these communities, citing the recognition of around seven Janajati personalities with Padma Shri Awards and the respect accorded to the Manikya Dynasty. Sharing insights from a prior meeting on Aspirational Districts, he noted their commendable performance in development works. He then reiterated the landmark agreement with the World Bank, securing ₹1400 crore under the Tripura Rural Economic Growth and Service Delivery Project (TRESP), specifically targeted at improving the livelihoods and socio-economic standing of the Janajati populace.
The Bizu Mela event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries, including Industries and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma, MLA Sambhu Lal Chakma, Dhalai DM Saju Vahid, and Dhalai SP Mihir Lal Das, as confirmed in an official statement.