Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a public rally here on Sunday and highlighted the efforts of the “double-engine” government to uplift the poor and tribal population of Tripura.
He also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various projects and initiatives, including road infrastructure projects worth ₹4,350 crore. The Prime Minister remotely inaugurated the Agartala Government Dental College at the historic IGM Hospital premises, the first such facility in the State.
Beginning his speech in Bengali, Mr. Modi said he felt proud to be in the land of ‘Goddess Tripureshwari’, amid applause. He then switched to Hindi as he spoke on the achievements and development initiatives of the “double-engine government”.
Lashing out at previous governments without naming parties, he stated they only practised “politics of tricks” but did not endeavour to uplift the social and economic status of the ordinary and poor people. “Tripura earlier used to be discussed outside for two matters – elections and violence”, he said, adding that the State is now getting noticed for its “Swachhata and other initiatives”.
He said Tripura recently won first prize from the Centre for successful management of the Swachhata campaign in the ‘Small State Category’. He said the employment, economic and communication scenarios of the State will be boosted after completion of upcoming projects in all spheres.
Mr. Modi also spent considerable time speaking about the work done and projects completed for the benefit of the indigenous population by the State government led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He mentioned that BJP won almost all tribal reserved seats in Gujarat Assembly elections which showed that people from all sections had faith and supported the ruling party.
He further said the current allocation for tribal welfare is several times higher than in the past and elaborated on tribal-oriented projects being executed in the State.
The rally at the Vivekananda Stadium, where major political functions are held, saw a huge turnout. Though organised by the State government with Governor Satyadev Narayan Arya as the chief guest, the event had all the fanfare of an election rally, with speakers highlighting the achievements of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and State. Crowds too chanted BJP party slogans enthusiastically.
Morale boost
During his speech, Modi also termed Chief Minister Manik Saha “popular”, hinting that the party might continue to back Dr. Saha for the top post amid reports of friction in the State unit ahead of the Assembly elections due in February.
Former Chief Minister and Rajya Sabha Member Biplab Kumar Deb, Union Minister of State Pratima Bhoumik and Deputy Chief Minister Jishnu Debbarman were present at the rally.
