Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha on Friday highlighted the state’s key demands before NITI Aayog, including railway expansion, industrial growth, textile development, bamboo technology and better connectivity. In Agartala, he said Tripura needs stronger infrastructure support and central cooperation for long-term economic development.
Quick Glance
- CM Manik Saha raised Tripura’s railway expansion demands, including the Badarpur-Sabroom double-line project and electric train services up to Sabroom.
- NITI Aayog support was sought for textile industries using banana fibre, pineapple and bamboo resources.
- The Chief Minister proposed upgrading the Bamboo and Cane Development Institute in Agartala into an Indian Institute of Bamboo Technology.
- Connectivity demands included Agartala-Guwahati Vande Bharat Express, direct Agartala-Chittagong flights and revival of Kailashahar airport.
Agartala: Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha has highlighted a wide range of development demands before NITI Aayog and central authorities, focusing on railway infrastructure, industrial expansion, connectivity and better use of local resources.
Speaking at a press conference in Agartala, Dr. Saha said Tripura requires strategic support to accelerate economic growth. He discussed several proposals aimed at strengthening transport networks, creating industries and improving employment opportunities.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the achievements of the Narendra Modi-led government during the past 12 years. He said India has witnessed major changes in governance, infrastructure, economy, technology and social welfare under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Dr. Saha congratulated Prime Minister Modi for completing a historic tenure as India’s longest-serving democratically elected Prime Minister. He said June 10, 2026, marked a significant milestone as Modi completed 4,399 days in office.
Railway Expansion Among Key Demands for Tripura
Improving railway connectivity remained one of the major issues raised by the Chief Minister before central authorities.
Dr. Saha said Tripura needs faster expansion of railway infrastructure to improve passenger movement, trade opportunities and industrial growth.
He placed several railway-related demands, including early implementation of the Badarpur-Sabroom double-line railway project.
The Chief Minister also requested the introduction of electric passenger train services up to Sabroom. He said better rail connectivity to southern Tripura would support economic activities and improve access to border areas.
Another major proposal was the introduction of a Vande Bharat Express service between Agartala and Guwahati. Dr. Saha said a faster train service between Tripura and Assam would strengthen regional connectivity.
| Railway Proposal | Objective |
|---|---|
| Badarpur-Sabroom double-line project | Improve railway capacity and connectivity |
| Electric passenger train services up to Sabroom | Expand modern rail services in Tripura |
| Agartala-Guwahati Vande Bharat Express | Faster connection with Assam |
Textile Industry Proposal Using Local Resources
Dr. Saha said Tripura has the potential to develop a textile industry by using its natural resources.
He mentioned banana fibre, pineapple and bamboo as important raw materials that can support textile production.
The Chief Minister said changes in the regional textile sector have created opportunities for Tripura. He requested NITI Aayog’s support to establish and expand textile-based industries in the state.
According to him, resource-based industries can create employment opportunities and strengthen the rural economy.
Proposal for Indian Institute of Bamboo Technology in Agartala
Bamboo development was another important focus of the Chief Minister’s discussion.
Dr. Saha proposed upgrading the Bamboo and Cane Development Institute into an Indian Institute of Bamboo Technology.
He said Tripura needs an integrated bamboo value chain covering cultivation, processing, research and marketing.
The Chief Minister also stressed the use of tissue culture technology to develop improved bamboo varieties.
He said scientific research and modern technology can help Tripura emerge as a major hub for bamboo-based industries in the Northeast.
Air Connectivity and Industrial Infrastructure Plans
Apart from railway development, Dr. Saha raised demands related to air connectivity and industrial infrastructure.
He requested direct flight services between Agartala and Chittagong to improve regional connectivity.
The Chief Minister also sought steps for the revival of Kailashahar airport.
He said stronger transport networks would help tourism, trade and industrial development in Tripura.
Demand for Affordable Natural Gas and Rubber Research
Dr. Saha said he requested the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to improve the availability of natural gas at affordable rates for industrial purposes in Tripura.
He said reliable energy supply is necessary for attracting new industries and supporting existing businesses.
The Chief Minister also requested NITI Aayog’s support for establishing research and development facilities for rubber.
He said Tripura has significant potential in rubber production and advanced research can help manufacture high-value rubber products within the state.
News Analysis: Railway and Industry Push Shows Tripura’s Development Priorities
The demands placed by Chief Minister Manik Saha before NITI Aayog reflect Tripura’s focus on infrastructure-led economic growth.
Railway expansion remains a crucial requirement for a landlocked state like Tripura. Better rail connectivity can reduce transportation challenges, support industries and improve movement of goods and people.
The Badarpur-Sabroom double-line project and proposed electric train services show the state’s demand for modern railway facilities.
At the same time, the focus on textile, bamboo and rubber industries highlights Tripura’s effort to build an economy based on local resources.
The combination of improved connectivity and industrial development can create new opportunities for investment and employment.
CM Responds to Tipra Motha Agreement Question
During the press conference, Dr. Saha was asked about developments related to the tripartite agreement involving Tipra Motha Party, the new interlocutor and the Intelligence Bureau Director.
The Chief Minister said he was not aware of any new development regarding the matter.
He added that he had no direct information or personal discussion on the issue.
TET Issue for Teachers Under Government Review
A journalist also questioned the Chief Minister about the Supreme Court-related issue involving teachers without TET qualification.
Dr. Saha said he was aware of the matter but would consult legal experts before making a final statement.
He said the government would decide the next course of action after examining the legal aspects.
Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme
Dr. Saha highlighted the progress of Tripura under the Aspirational Districts Programme.
He said the initiative has helped improve development indicators in areas that required special attention.
The Chief Minister added that the government is now focusing on Aspirational Blocks to transform these areas into models of development.
He said national progress depends on protecting interests while ensuring inclusive growth.