Minister for Industries and Commerce, Santana Chakma, has announced a range of programs designed to promote financial self-reliance among state’s youths through the promotion of industry. Significant measures have been taken by the department to attract both domestic and foreign investors to the state, she said in a press briefing at the secretariat. The minister outlined the establishment of a committee named IPAT, chaired by the Chief Minister. The primary goal of this committee is to facilitate the entry of foreign investors into Tripura’s industrial sector. The Secretary of the Department of Industry and Commerce serves as the Chief Executive Officer of this committee.
Chakma announced the establishment of a 24,122-square-meter Ekta Mall in the Badharghat area. With an investment of approximately 150 crore rupees, this mall aims to showcase state products not only within Tripura but also across the entire country, bolstering trade prospects. She emphasized that the mall is part of the broader efforts to enhance trade and provide a platform for local products.
On March 6, 2024, Delhi hosted the North Eastern Investment Summit, where 14 agreements for investment in Tripura were signed. This summit has unlocked an investment potential of Rs 1861.51 crore for the state. In addition, the Tripura Industrial Development Corporation has completed site development, boundary wall construction, and gate installation for a multi-sector SEZ (Special Economic Zone) in Sabroom. This initiative aims to enhance export-import infrastructure, attracting both domestic and foreign investors.
Speaking about the Micro, Small, and Medium Entrepreneurship (MSME) sector, Chakma noted that the Udyam portal has witnessed 59,182 registrations. Additionally, 49,951 artists and artisans have registered on the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma portal. Loans under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Program and the Swavalamban scheme are empowering unemployed youth, providing them with opportunities to start and grow their businesses.
The minister also mentioned that the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission and Tripura Urban Livelihood Mission have released Rs. 1028.42 lakhs for capital, including equipment purchases. Moreover, 1317 self-help group members have undergone skill enhancement training, which is crucial for their economic advancement.
Chakma highlighted Tripura’s engagement in foreign trade, noting that in the fiscal year 2023-24, the state conducted trade worth Rs 715.98 crores with Bangladesh. The export amount stood at Rs 12.31 crore, while imports totaled Rs 703.67 crore. These trade activities underscore the state’s growing economic ties and commitment to enhancing its trade prospects.
The minister stressed that these initiatives reflect the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment, economic growth, and global engagement. Investors and entrepreneurs can look forward to a conducive environment for business development in Tripura. Director of Industry and Commerce Department Vishwashree B was also present at the day’s press briefing, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the department to achieve these goals.
