In a bid to showcase and enhance the cultural heritage and tourism potential of Tripura, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha inaugurated the foundation stone laying ceremony for the “Tourism and Cultural Promotion Hub” on Wednesday. The ceremony took place at the ICA office premises located in Gandhighat, Agartala, with several dignitaries in attendance.
During the event, Dr. Saha emphasized the significance of preserving and promoting Tripura’s rich culture and traditions. He highlighted the pivotal role of the proposed hub in safeguarding these cultural treasures for future generations.
The Tourism and Cultural Promotion Hub, slated to be a multi-storey complex, will cover an area of 1.61 acres with an initial built-up area of 1730 square meters. Funding for the project, amounting to Rs. 34.55 crore, has been sanctioned by the Department of North Eastern Region (DoNER) under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme.
Among its notable features, the hub will include an Open Theatre spanning 300 square meters, an auditorium capable of seating 250 individuals, two display galleries, statues representing icons from Northeastern states, designated parking facilities, and a grand entrance gate.
Dr. Saha underscored the broader development vision for the Northeast region, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Ashtalaxmi and Act East Policy initiatives, which aim to bolster connectivity and growth in the area.
Anticipating a significant boost to tourism in the state, Dr. Saha expressed confidence in the hub’s ability to attract visitors, citing an uptick in tourist footfall in recent years. He stressed the importance of infrastructure development and socio-economic progress in tandem with this anticipated growth.
Additionally, Dr. Saha commended the inclusive development agenda of the Prime Minister, encapsulated by the “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” motto. He highlighted Tripura’s strides in connectivity, particularly with the successful implementation of the HIRA Model promise.
The ceremony saw Bimbisar Bhattacharya, Director of ICA, delivering the welcome address, with Secretary P.K. Chakraborty elaborating on the project’s upcoming milestones. Notable figures such as Subrata Chakraborty, Vice-Chairman of the State Level Cultural Advisory Committee, and CEO of State Housing and Construction Board Shyamal Chakraborty were also present, demonstrating collective commitment to advancing cultural heritage and tourism in Tripura.
