Agartala, July 08, 2025: Tripura Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy on Monday urged the 16th Finance Commission to extend special financial assistance for the development of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) and to sanction additional police forces in border regions to combat the growing drug menace.
Speaking at a high-level meeting convened by the 16th Finance Commission with representatives of the North Eastern states, Roy presented a detailed account of Tripura’s pressing infrastructural challenges and developmental needs.
“The Finance Minister called for special grants specifically targeting the TTAADC areas to bridge the infrastructure gap and promote inclusive growth,” said a senior state official familiar with the proceedings.
Roy also sought enhanced support to tackle connectivity issues, particularly those affecting road and rail links during the monsoon season. He advocated for a 20% allocation for forestry and ecology, emphasizing the ecological significance of the region.
In his address, the minister placed special emphasis on the need for funds to boost sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). “He urged the Commission to consider a dedicated infrastructure fund for these sectors to stimulate sustainable growth and employment,” the official added.
Raising concerns about Tripura’s border vulnerabilities, Roy highlighted the increasing threat of drug trafficking and requested additional deployment of police forces along sensitive stretches. “He pointed out that instability in neighboring Bangladesh has added to the state’s socio-economic and security challenges,” the official said.
Roy also flagged the adverse impact of regional instability on medical tourism, an emerging sector in Tripura that has attracted patients from across the border in recent years.
The Finance Minister further appealed to the Commission to treat Tripura’s revenue deficit with urgency, calling for increased fiscal support to address the shortfall and accelerate development initiatives.
