West Tripura (Tripura) [India], August 18 (ANI): Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha emphasised the need for unity among all communities–tribal and non-tribal, irrespective of religion, caste, or political ideology–to contribute to the development of Tripura.
The Chief Minister was speaking at the two-day celebration of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur’s 116th birth anniversary, which commenced today in the town of Khumulwng in the West Tripura district.
The program was organized jointly by INTACH Tripura Chapter and the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC).
The event includes a discussion panel and an exhibition showcasing the life and contributions of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, a king of Tripura also popularly known as the “Architect of Modern Tripura”.
Chief Minister Professor Manik Saha, who attended as the chief guest, addressed the gathering at the Nuyai Auditorium in Khumulwng and highlighted that the previous government distanced the royal family from the public, and their welfare-oriented initiatives were never given due recognition.
“Since coming to power in 2018, the current government has taken significant steps to honour Maharaja Bir Bikram’s legacy, including renaming the Agartala airport after him and declaring his birthday a public holiday,” said CM Saha.
“Additionally, the Zero Island at Kaman Chowmuhani was renamed Maharaja Bir Bikram Chowmuhani, and a statue of the Maharaja was installed there, the Chief Minister said.
He also mentioned the installation of a full-length statue of Maharaja Bir Bikram at the Agartala airport, reflecting the government’s respect for the royal family.
In his speech, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for unity among all communities–tribal and non-tribal, irrespective of religion, caste, or political ideology–to contribute to the development of Tripura.
He stated that the state could only be recognized as a model state in the future if everyone works together for its progress.
He urged against politicizing developmental efforts and stressed the importance of carrying forward the developmental legacy left by Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya.
CM Saha also acknowledged the various initiatives taken by the central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the upliftment of tribal communities in the state, noting significant improvements in connectivity under the HIRA model.
MP Kriti Devi Debbarma and MDC Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma also spoke at the event, commending the state’s efforts to honour Maharaja Bir Bikram.
They highlighted the Maharaja’s contributions to the legal land rights of the tribal communities, the establishment of the airport, and the expansion of education in the state and his modern vision that significantly contributed to the state’s progress.
Other notable speakers at the event included ADC Chief Executive Member Purna Chandra Jamatia, Tripura Central University Vice-Chancellor Ganga Prasad Prasain, and Maharajkumari Pragya Debbarma.
Following the inauguration, the Chief Minister and other guests toured the exhibition on Maharaja Bir Bikram’s life and work and opened traditional food stalls. (ANI)
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