Development of Villages Essential for a Prosperous India: Chief Minister Manik Saha

Agartala, July 17: Tripura’s Chief Minister Manik Saha stated on Friday that bringing positive changes to people’s lives is the true measure of development. He emphasized the need for continuous efforts to improve the socio-economic conditions of all sections of society.

Saha highlighted that nearly 80 percent of the state’s panchayats have excelled in various performance metrics at the national level, showcasing Tripura’s growing prominence in grassroots governance.

These remarks were made during the inauguration of the State-Level Panchayat Awards 2026-27 at the Gram Swaraj Bhavan in Agartala.

The Chief Minister noted that Tripura has received national recognition for its outstanding work in the panchayat sector, crediting the Panchayati Raj Department for its ongoing efforts.

He remarked that the state has been honored nationally for its achievements in the panchayat sector. The department is working in the right direction, and the public has immense trust and confidence in the panchayati raj institutions.

Saha stressed that strengthening panchayats is crucial for the development of both the state and the country.

He pointed out that approximately 75 percent of Tripura’s geographical area is rural, with about 75 percent of the population residing in villages and panchayat regions. Therefore, their development is extremely important. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently emphasized the need to make panchayats self-reliant and technologically empowered. As the Prime Minister has repeatedly stated, without the development of villages, the goal of a developed India by 2047 cannot be achieved.

Describing villages as the foundation of development, he noted that previous governments had neglected rural areas in favor of urban development.

He asserted that the true engine of development lies in villages. Rural development is only possible through the collective efforts of the government and the public. Today, 51 awards are being presented in various categories to recognize excellence in panchayat administration.