Tripura

‘Development, not division’: Ratan Nath dismisses Tipraland demand


Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Friday dismissed the demand of ‘Tipraland’, asserting that such proposals are impractical and misleading for the Janajati community.

Addressing an election rally at Birmohanbari under the Bodhjungnagar-Wakhinagar constituency in support of BJP candidate Ranabir Debbarma, Nath said that the BJP remains the only party committed to the real development of tribal areas.

He alleged that regional parties, including Tipra Motha and Communist Party of India (Marxist), have failed to deliver tangible benefits to the people. “They raise slogans, but do not work on the ground,” he said.

Highlighting welfare initiatives, Nath stated that the BJP government has ensured the distribution of free rice to a majority of families, with plans to extend the benefit to all non-government employee households. He also claimed that the state has achieved 100 percent water connectivity and significantly expanded social pension coverage from around 500 to nearly 2,000 beneficiaries.

The Minister credited these developments to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that both the central and state governments are prioritizing tribal welfare.

Nath further pointed out that recognition of tribal contributions has increased in recent years. “Earlier, no one spoke about honoring Janajati individuals. Today, several from the community have been awarded the Padma Shri,” he said.

He also highlighted the appointment of Jishnu Dev Verma as Governor, describing it as a significant milestone for the state’s tribal representation.

Reiterating the BJP’s stance, Nath said that development, rather than divisive demands, is the only viable path forward. “We believe in inclusive progress. Our government is working to preserve tribal culture and language while ensuring overall development,” he added.

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