Agartala, February 06, 2026: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Thursday evening emphasized that Tripura cannot achieve self-reliance or match the country’s leading states without the socio-economic upliftment and empowerment of women. He was speaking at the inauguration of the three-day Sepahijala District-level Saras Fair at Bishramganj Mini Stadium.

The Chief Minister noted that women in Tripura, through training and skill development, are improving the quality of their products, which are now gaining popularity across the country. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership for inspiring women to market handmade dolls and indigenous items both in India and abroad.

“Self-reliant women contribute not only to their own progress but also to the development of their families, society, and the state’s economy,” Dr. Saha said, adding that the Union Budget has placed special emphasis on women’s empowerment.

Highlighting Tripura’s achievements, he said the state currently ranks third in literacy nationwide and has made significant strides in law and order, encouraging investors from outside the state. He also referred to India’s success in ‘Operation Sindhu’ using indigenous weaponry, attributing it to the Prime Minister’s strategic leadership. “As part of the vision of a developed India by 2047, Tripura too is rapidly transforming into a developed state,” he remarked.

On social issues, the Chief Minister described child marriage as a “social curse” and urged collective efforts from parents, community leaders, and citizens alongside the administration to eradicate it. He stressed that fairs are not merely for entertainment but also foster cultural integration. Development projects, including improved connectivity, are being continuously implemented across the state, he added.

The event was attended by Sepahijala DM Dr. Siddharth Shiv Jaiswal, who delivered the welcome address, and Zilla Parishad Sabhadhipati Supriya Das Datta, who presided over the function. Eight village committees and gram panchayats from Jampuijala, Charilam, and Nalchar blocks were awarded for being child marriage-free over the past six months.

Among other dignitaries present were MLA Antara Sarkar Deb, TTAADC MDC Padmalochan Tripura, SP Bijoy Debbarma, ADM Subhash Datta, and officials from various subdivisions and blocks.

The district-level Saras Fair features 85 stalls set up by self-help groups, Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission, and different government departments. The fair will continue until February 7, with daily cultural performances by artists from Tripura and other states.