Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said Tripura has become a key contributor to Northeast India’s development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. During his Agartala visit, he highlighted improvements in connectivity, infrastructure, governance, agriculture and citizen-focused initiatives while reviewing development projects and joining public programmes.
Quick Glance
- Sarbananda Sonowal highlights Tripura’s transformation through connectivity, infrastructure and economic growth.
- Union Minister reviews Gurkhabasti high-rise government office project in Agartala.
- Tripura CM Manik Saha joins Sonowal at Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sammelan.
- Sonowal promotes environmental conservation through the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.
Agartala: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said Tripura has emerged as an important centre of growth in Northeast India. He credited improved connectivity, infrastructure expansion, better governance systems and rising economic opportunities for the state’s progress.
Sonowal made the remarks during his visit to Agartala as part of programmes marking 12 years of the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre.
The Union minister said Tripura has witnessed a significant change in the last decade. According to him, better roads, railway links, digital facilities and public infrastructure have strengthened the state’s connection with national and international markets.
He described the Northeast as a region that has moved from the margins of development to the centre of India’s growth strategy.
Sonowal Attends Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sammelan in Agartala
During his Agartala visit, Sonowal participated in the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sammelan and interacted with eminent citizens.
Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, Agartala Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder, MLA Abhishek Debroy and other officials attended various programmes.
Sonowal said the Modi government’s 12-year journey has focused on “Vishwas, Vikas and Jan Kalyan”. He added that governance has become more transparent, technology-driven and citizen-oriented.
He stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership has created new confidence among citizens and opened fresh opportunities across the country, including the Northeast.
Connectivity Expansion Boosts Tripura’s Economic Potential
Sonowal said connectivity development has played a major role in Tripura’s transformation.
He highlighted the importance of road networks, railway expansion, digital connectivity and improved public facilities.
According to him, these initiatives have helped Tripura become more connected with wider markets.
| Development Area | Impact Highlighted |
|---|---|
| Roads and Transport | Improved movement of goods and people |
| Rail Connectivity | Better integration with national markets |
| Digital Infrastructure | Faster access to services and opportunities |
| Public Infrastructure | Strengthened governance and administration |
Sonowal said Tripura is entering a new phase of development where earlier challenges are turning into opportunities.
Queen Pineapple Brings Global Recognition for Tripura Farmers
The Union minister highlighted Tripura’s agricultural potential, especially the state’s famous Queen pineapple.
He said improved connectivity and market access have helped farmers explore new opportunities.
Sonowal stated that agricultural products from the Northeast are gaining recognition beyond regional markets.
He added that infrastructure development and economic empowerment programmes have supported farmers and rural communities.
Women and Youth Remain Focus Areas of Development Strategy
Sonowal also spoke about government initiatives for women and young people.
He highlighted welfare programmes, entrepreneurship support, skill development schemes and direct benefit transfer systems.
According to him, women and youth are becoming important contributors to India’s development journey.
He said young people now have more opportunities in startups, innovation and enterprise development.
He also noted that women are playing a larger role in economic and social transformation.
Northeast Becomes Strategic Growth Centre, Says Sonowal
Discussing the transformation of Northeast India, Sonowal said the region has gained a stronger position in the country’s development framework.
He called the Northeast a strategic growth centre and India’s gateway to Southeast Asia.
He said peace initiatives, infrastructure investments and people-focused governance have helped unlock the region’s potential.
According to Sonowal, enhanced connectivity has created new possibilities for economic growth in the region.
Gurkhabasti High-Rise Project Reviewed During Pragati Path Yatra
As part of the Pragati Path Yatra, Sonowal inspected the ongoing construction work of the high-rise government office complex at Gurkhabasti in Agartala.

He said the project would improve administrative efficiency after completion.
The Union minister added that better governance and effective public service delivery remain key priorities.
He said the new facility would help bring government services closer to citizens.
Sonowal also praised Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha for focusing on infrastructure development and governance reforms.
‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Campaign Promotes Environmental Awareness
Later, Sonowal planted a sapling at Nutannagar Girls’ Higher Secondary School under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.
He described the initiative as a tribute to mothers and nature.
The Union minister said environmental protection must remain a key part of India’s development vision.
He urged citizens to support conservation efforts while contributing to national progress.
Vision for Developed India by 2047
Sonowal said the last 12 years have created a strong foundation for achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047.
He appealed to citizens to participate actively in nation-building activities during the Amrit Kaal period.
