West Tripura Lok Sabha MP and former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb met Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in New Delhi to seek Central support for several tourism and heritage development projects in Tripura. During the meeting, Deb requested faster approval and implementation of projects covering Shakti Peethas, the Unakoti archaeological site, and the Mata Tripurasundari Temple under the PRASAD scheme. He also urged the Centre to establish an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Circle Office in Tripura. According to Deb, these initiatives would boost tourism, preserve the state’s heritage, create employment, and strengthen the local economy.
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Key Facts
- Meeting: Biplab Kumar Deb with Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
- Location: New Delhi
- Purpose: Seek Central support for tourism and heritage projects in Tripura
- Shakti Peetha Project Cost: ₹29.87 crore
- Unakoti Development Proposal: ₹100 crore
- Additional PRASAD Funds Sought: ₹17.61 crore
- Existing PRASAD Allocation: ₹37.80 crore
- Key Demand: Establishment of an ASI Circle Office in Tripura
Biplab Deb Meets Union Tourism Minister
West Tripura MP Biplab Kumar Deb met Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in New Delhi and submitted a series of proposals aimed at strengthening tourism infrastructure and preserving Tripura’s cultural and religious heritage.
During the meeting, Deb highlighted the state’s tourism potential and requested greater Central support for projects that could attract more domestic and international visitors.
Push for Shakti Peetha Tourism Circuit
One of the key proposals discussed was the early implementation of a ₹29.87 crore tourism development project covering three important Shakti Peethas in South Tripura.
The proposed circuit includes Yogmaya Kalibari in Belonia, Rajrajeshwari Kalibari in Muhuripur, and Daityeshwari Kalibari in Sabroom. According to Deb, the Tripura Tourism Department has already submitted the proposal to the Union Ministry of Tourism for consideration.
Major Development Plan for Unakoti
Deb also sought Central support for transforming the historic Unakoti archaeological site into a world-class tourist destination.
He proposed widening the nearly one-kilometre road connecting National Highway-208 to the ASI-protected monument into a four-lane road. Additionally, he recommended the development of an open-air theatre, landscaped gardens, tourist lodges, an eco-museum, souvenir shops, cafeterias, drinking water facilities, modern toilets, parking spaces, and adventure activity zones.
Furthermore, he requested the Union Minister to facilitate the issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for implementing the proposed ₹100 crore development project.
Demand for ASI Circle Office in Tripura
Another important issue raised during the meeting was the establishment of a dedicated ASI Circle Office in Tripura.
Deb pointed out that eight of the ten centrally protected monuments currently managed under the Aizawl Circle are located in Tripura. Therefore, he argued that a separate ASI Circle Office would improve conservation, maintenance, and administrative coordination for the state’s heritage sites.
Additional Funds Sought for Mata Tripurasundari Project
The MP also requested the speedy completion of the Mata Tripurasundari Temple development project under the PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) Scheme.
While the Central Government has already sanctioned ₹37.80 crore, Deb sought an additional ₹17.61 crore to complete supplementary infrastructure and development works within the project timeline.
Tourism Development Expected to Boost Economy
According to Deb, strengthening tourism infrastructure will help position Tripura as a major cultural, historical, and religious tourism destination in Northeast India.
He stated that improved connectivity, better visitor facilities, and heritage conservation would generate employment opportunities, support local businesses, and contribute to the state’s long-term economic growth.
Questions and Answers
What did Biplab Kumar Deb discuss with the Union Tourism Minister?
He sought Central support for tourism infrastructure, heritage conservation projects, and religious tourism development in Tripura.
Which tourism projects were proposed?
The proposals include the ₹29.87 crore Shakti Peetha tourism circuit, the ₹100 crore Unakoti development project, and additional funding for the Mata Tripurasundari Temple under the PRASAD scheme.
Why did Deb request an ASI Circle Office?
He said Tripura houses most of the centrally protected monuments under the Aizawl Circle, making a dedicated ASI office necessary for efficient management and conservation.
How much additional funding was requested for the PRASAD project?
Deb requested an additional ₹17.61 crore to complete supplementary works at the Mata Tripurasundari Temple project.
How will these projects benefit Tripura?
The projects aim to improve tourism infrastructure, preserve heritage sites, create employment, and strengthen the state’s economy.
Location Context
Tripura is home to several important religious, archaeological, and cultural landmarks, including Unakoti and the Mata Tripurasundari Temple, one of India’s revered Shakti Peethas. Improved tourism infrastructure and heritage conservation can significantly enhance the state’s position as a leading tourism destination in Northeast India while promoting sustainable economic development.
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