Agartala 16 November, 2024: The Tripura government has partnered with Tata Technologies Limited to enhance the infrastructure and training facilities of the state’s 19 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury announced the decision, which was recently approved in a state cabinet meeting, during a press conference held at the Secretariat.
The collaboration aims to upgrade ITI infrastructure and improve placement opportunities for graduates, both within and outside the state, while fostering support for startups. A formal agreement between the state government and Tata Technologies will be signed soon.
Under this project, 11 new trades will be introduced across ITIs. The initiative will involve a total expenditure of ₹683.28 crore, with 86% funded by Tata Technologies Limited and 14% by the state government. Additionally, the state government has allocated an extra ₹107.06 crore for infrastructure development across 13,000 sq. ft. of ITI space.
Minister Addresses Airfare Concerns
Addressing concerns raised in the media about airfare rates, especially on the Agartala-Kolkata route, the Minister clarified that airfare pricing is determined by the airlines and monitored by the Tariff Monitoring Unit of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
He stated that approximately 60% of airplane seats are priced below ₹4,000 under basic fare slabs. However, last-minute bookings or urgent tickets may cost more, with about 8-10 premium seats per flight being priced higher.
The Minister also highlighted the objectives of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, launched in 2016 to provide affordable air travel to underserved and unserved airports. However, since Agartala and Kolkata airports do not fall under this category, they are not eligible for UDAN benefits.
Currently, 16 flights operate daily from the state. Additionally, a new IndiGo Airbus service is set to commence soon from MBB Airport in Agartala.
Officials Present at the Conference
The press conference was attended by:
• Bishwashree B, Director of Industries and Commerce Department
• Subrata Chowdhury, Additional Secretary of the Transport Department
• Maitri Debnath, Joint Secretary of the Transport Department
This collaboration with Tata Technologies and the state’s ongoing efforts aim to create a skilled workforce, improve employment opportunities, and boost infrastructure development.
