Reported by Mrinal Kanti Banik
Agartala: Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Sunday said attempts to create divisions among the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners in the state would not succeed, asserting that all coalition constituents shared a common commitment to equitable development.
The ruling alliance comprises the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT) and Tipra Motha.
“Our critics have been trying hard to create misunderstanding within the NDA allies, but these efforts shall entail no fruitful results. All the parties that are part and parcel of the NDA that includes Tipra Motha, IPFT and us (BJP) have a shared goal of development. People must have access to basic amenities even in the remotest corner of the state,” Saha told reporters.
The Chief Minister was speaking after addressing the state-level Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas programme at Chawmanu in Dhalai district.
Emphasising the need to bridge development gaps, Saha said geographical distances could not be eliminated, but the government was committed to ensuring that people in even the most remote areas had access to essential facilities.
“The geographical distance can’t be reduced or overridden but the government wants to make sure that all sorts of amenities are available even in the remotest part of the state. The abyss of disparity that has been visible for years needs to be bridged and multiple steps have been undertaken by the government to bridge that gap. Equitable development all over the state is the only solution,” he said.
Four Eklavya Model Residential Schools inaugurated
As part of the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebrations, Saha virtually inaugurated four Eklavya Model Residential Schools at Chawmanu, Ampi, Manu and Hezamara.
Academic sessions also formally commenced at two other Eklavya Model Residential Schools located at Mandwai and Amarpur.
Addresses by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, delivered to mark the occasion, were telecast live at the programme venue.
Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas is observed every year to commemorate the birth anniversary of tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda.
CM highlights contributions of tribal freedom fighters
Addressing the gathering, Saha paid tribute to tribal revolutionaries for their role in India’s freedom struggle, saying their courage and sacrifices continued to inspire generations.
“Their tales of selfless sacrifice for the nation still inspire us. The stories of courage and valour ignite the spirit of patriotism in all of us,” he said.
The Chief Minister also highlighted various government initiatives aimed at promoting livelihood opportunities and improving the socio-economic conditions of indigenous communities in Tripura.
He reiterated the government’s focus on ensuring that development benefits reached people across the state, including those living in remote and underserved areas.