Tripura, 15 Sep 2025: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Sunday said that the history, heritage, and cultural harmony surrounding Neermahal and Rudrasagar must be promoted more extensively across the country and the world. This, he noted, would attract more domestic and international tourists to Neermahal, boosting the local economy.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the three-day traditional Neermahal Water Festival held at Rajghat, Melaghar, the Chief Minister said Neermahal and Rudrasagar are deeply connected with the lives of local people. Among the water palaces in India, Neermahal is one of the most unique, attracting tourists with its architectural beauty and natural surroundings.
He added that under the Swadesh Darshan programme, several initiatives are being implemented to strengthen Tripura’s tourism sector, with Neermahal included in the plan. The Chief Minister further highlighted the government’s focus on holistic rural development, mentioning the formation of around 60,000 self-help groups to empower women. He urged collective efforts to maintain peace and build a “Shrestha Tripura.”
Higher Education Minister Kishore Barman, who presided over the ceremony, said that Neermahal and Rudrasagar are closely linked to the livelihood of the local community and remain a matter of pride. Sipahijala Zilla Parishad Chairperson Supriya Das Dutta also addressed the gathering, while the welcome speech was delivered by Sipahijala District Magistrate Dr. Siddharth Shiv Jaiswal.
Among the distinguished guests were MLA Tofazzal Hossain, Nalchhara Panchayat Samiti Chairman Swapan Kumar Das, Melaghar Municipal Council Chairperson Anamika Ghosh Pal Ray, Sipahijala Superintendent of Police Bijoy Debbarma, Rudrasagar Udbastu Fishermen’s Cooperative Society President Pabitra Kumar Das, and social worker Uttam Das.
After the boat race, the Chief Minister along with other dignitaries presented awards to the winners of the state-level swimming competition, subdivision-level yoga competition, state-level Mansamangal contest, and various categories of the boat race.
