Agartala, January 23:
Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya Scindia arrived in Agartala on Friday on a three-day official visit to Tripura, during which he will review key tourism destinations and inspect several development projects funded by the Ministry of DoNER. The visit is aimed at accelerating infrastructure growth and strengthening economic opportunities in the state.
Speaking to reporters upon arrival at Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport, Scindia said it was a pleasure to return to Tripura, a state with which his family shares a long-standing historical association. He recalled that his aunt, Maharani Padmaraje, was married to the former Maharaja of Tripura, adding that the state holds a special emotional significance for him.
The Union Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is deeply committed to the holistic development of the “Ashtalakshmi” — the eight states of the Northeast. In line with this vision, Scindia announced development projects worth approximately ₹540 crore for Tripura. Of this, around ₹240 crore will be utilized for foundation stone-laying and inauguration of projects across sectors such as roads, health, tourism, and power, largely supported by central government funding.
Praising Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, Scindia described him as a cooperative, visionary, and forward-looking leader. He said the Centre and the state government are working in close coordination to ensure balanced and inclusive development across Tripura.
During his visit, the Union Minister, accompanied by the Chief Minister, will travel to Dumboor to lay the foundation stone of the ambitious Matabari Tourism Circuit project, estimated to cost between ₹250 and ₹270 crore. The project is expected to significantly boost tourism infrastructure and create livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Scindia also highlighted a pilot project on agarwood, often referred to as “liquid gold,” being implemented by the DoNER Ministry in Tripura and Assam. The initiative aims to promote sustainable livelihoods and enhance farmers’ income.
As part of his itinerary, the Union Minister will inaugurate and lay foundation stones for multiple DoNER-funded projects, inspect major tourism sites, and visit the revered Matabari Tripurasundari Temple, underscoring the Centre’s focus on both development and cultural heritage in Tripura.
