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In a press conference held by the Ministry of Tourism, Tripura, Minister Sushanta Chowdhury unveiled an ambitious roadmap aimed at transforming the state into a thriving tourism hub. The minister began by acknowledging the pivotal role played by former Indian cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly, the state’s appointed tourism brand ambassador since October of the previous year, in catalyzing tourism growth. Drawing comparisons between tourist arrivals and revenue collections in the months of October, November, and December of 2022-23 and 2023-24, Chowdhury highlighted a remarkable surge in both metrics.
During the corresponding months of 2023-24, Tripura witnessed a substantial increase in tourist footfall, with 1,55,183 visitors gracing its picturesque landscapes, including 19,614 international tourists. This marked a significant upswing from the previous year’s figures, which stood at 84,217 arrivals. Revenue collections during this period also witnessed a commendable rise, surpassing Rs. 1.23 crore compared to the previous year’s Rs. 1.2 crore, indicating a promising trajectory for the state’s tourism sector.
The minister outlined a multifaceted approach to bolster tourism infrastructure and experiences across Tripura. Key initiatives include the establishment of 51 Log Huts at various tourist destinations, with 41 already operational and plans underway to introduce 10 additional huts. Additionally, plans are in motion to inaugurate 15 Home Stay facilities, initially focusing on 11 sites at Narkelkunja and 4 at Jampui Hills, with the vision to extend such facilities to every district in the future.
Moreover, Tripura’s tourism development roadmap encompasses the enhancement of several iconic tourist destinations, including the four islands of Dumboor Lake and prominent sites like Chabimura, Sonamukhi in Kailashahar, Chaturdash Devata Temple, and Kasbeswari Kalibari. Financial support secured from the Asian Development Bank and the Ministry of Tourism underscores the government’s commitment to realizing these projects, with allocated funds earmarked for specific development endeavors.
Agartala and Unakoti have been enlisted under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme, signaling additional support for their tourism development endeavors. Each destination is set to receive around Rs. 70 crore to bolster their tourist infrastructure. In a bid to offer unique experiences, plans are also underway to procure a modern Houseboat for Dumboor Lake, adding to the state’s diverse tourism offerings.
Chowdhury reiterated the government’s commitment fostering tourism as a cornerstone of Tripura’s socio-economic growth. With concerted efforts aimed at enhancing infrastructure, promoting cultural exchange, and enriching tourist experiences, Tripura aims to emerge as a premier destination on India’s tourism map. Secretary to the Tourism Department U.K. Chakma and Director Tapan Das were also present during the press conference, underscoring the collaborative approach towards realizing the state’s tourism aspirations.
