Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has urged all departments to expedite the completion of ongoing development projects, emphasizing that delays directly impact the lives of citizens. While addressing a gathering during the inauguration of the Biju Mela in Shantirbazar on Sunday, the Chief Minister delivered a clear message that the state government would not tolerate unnecessary hold-ups in public infrastructure work.
He said that every delayed road, school, bridge, or hospital hurts the people who wait for better services and opportunities. The Chief Minister stressed that development projects must serve their intended purpose without bureaucratic hurdles or laxity. He pointed out that citizens have high expectations from the government, and it is the duty of all officials to meet those expectations in a timely and effective manner.
He mentioned that the state’s commitment to inclusive development would remain a priority, but timely execution is what brings real change. The Chief Minister reminded government engineers and department heads that incomplete projects create not just infrastructural gaps but also erode public trust. He called for greater accountability and asked officers to visit project sites regularly instead of relying solely on paperwork and reports.
During his speech, he referred to the ongoing initiatives under various central and state schemes. He said that Tripura had received substantial support from the central government, and it was now the responsibility of state agencies to convert funds into tangible outcomes. He also praised departments that had completed key projects ahead of schedule and used their examples to motivate others.
The Chief Minister also used the occasion to underline the importance of cultural unity. While inaugurating the Biju Mela, a major cultural event organized by the tribal communities, he said that Tripura’s strength lies in its diversity. He stated that festivals like Biju offer an opportunity to showcase traditions, foster harmony, and create a platform where all communities feel valued.
He interacted with artists, performers, and local leaders during the mela and expressed admiration for their efforts to preserve indigenous heritage. He said that cultural events are not just celebrations but also tools to educate younger generations about their roots. He appreciated the local administration’s efforts in organizing the mela and said that such gatherings boost local economies and promote tourism.
The Chief Minister also walked through several stalls displaying tribal crafts, food items, and handloom products. He encouraged entrepreneurs and self-help groups to continue innovating and reach wider markets. He said that the government would continue supporting tribal artisans and would introduce new schemes to improve access to capital, training, and infrastructure.
He assured the gathering that the government is working to ensure development reaches the last mile. He said roads are being built in remote areas, schools are getting digital upgrades, and health centres are being modernized. However, he insisted that speed and quality must go hand in hand.
He also pointed out that the people of Tripura deserve to see the benefits of democracy through real improvements in daily life. He said every project, whether big or small, carries a promise made to the people, and that promise must be fulfilled without excuses. The Chief Minister noted that the administration must operate with discipline and urgency.
The crowd responded positively to his words, with local residents and community leaders appreciating the government’s outreach. Many praised the fact that the Chief Minister took time to address both cultural and developmental issues during the same event. This dual approach, they said, reflects his understanding of the connection between economic progress and social harmony.
As the Biju Mela continued into the evening with dance, music, and festive cheer, the Chief Minister’s message of timely development echoed in conversations among attendees. His appeal struck a chord, reminding everyone that progress must not only be planned but also delivered on time—for the betterment of all citizens.
Chief Minister Saha didn’t just emphasize speed in project execution—he also demanded transparency. He said departments must submit regular progress reports and make information publicly accessible wherever possible. According to him, transparency helps prevent corruption and ensures that citizens can hold authorities accountable. He stressed that development should never happen behind closed doors but must reflect the needs and voices of the people.
He further added that communication between departments must improve. He observed that many delays arise from a lack of coordination between planning, implementation, and monitoring teams. He directed senior officials to break these silos and work as a cohesive unit. The Chief Minister highlighted that seamless collaboration could save both time and resources, leading to better results.
CM Saha also said that project delays often stem from land acquisition issues, late fund release, or unresponsive contractors. He directed district magistrates and department heads to flag these issues immediately so they can be addressed without disrupting timelines. He also hinted at creating a fast-track mechanism for resolving such roadblocks. He stressed that unnecessary procedural delays must not be allowed to continue under any circumstance.
He spoke about the growing aspirations of Tripura’s youth. He said that they want to see their state grow, generate more jobs, and offer better standards of living. “We owe it to them,” he stated firmly, “to act with urgency and integrity.” He pointed out that successful project completion will attract investment and help boost the overall economy of the state.
The Chief Minister concluded his address by assuring that he would personally monitor the status of major projects and conduct surprise inspections if necessary. His firm stance came as a signal that the state government intends to adopt a more hands-on approach in governance. He said that public service is not just a responsibility—it is a mission to uplift lives.
As the evening of the Biju Mela progressed, people mingled across communities, enjoying traditional delicacies and cultural performances. The festive air stood in contrast to the seriousness of the Chief Minister’s address, yet both threads reflected a shared desire—prosperity without delay, and unity without division.
The Mela served as more than just a platform for celebration. It became a reminder that development, when matched with cultural pride and administrative commitment, can truly become transformative. The crowd left with renewed hope, encouraged by the state’s top leadership calling for efficient governance with a human touch.