Agartala, January 21, 2026: The Department of Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA), Government of Tripura, organized a grand state-level ceremony today at the Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan to commemorate the 54th Tripura Statehood Day. On this day in 1972, Tripura transitioned from a Union Territory to a full-fledged state of the Indian Union.
Dignitaries Grace the Occasion
The celebration was inaugurated by the Chief Minister, Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha. He was accompanied by a host of senior cabinet colleagues and leaders, including:
- Ratan Lal Nath, Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Power.
- Sushanta Chowdhury, Minister for Tourism and Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs.
- Kishor Barman, Minister for Tribal Welfare (TRP & PTG).
- Other prominent figures, including Industry Minister Santana Chakma, Cooperation Minister Shukla Charan Noatia, and Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha, also attended the event.
Honoring Excellence: State Civil Awards 2026
A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the State Civil Awards to distinguished individuals for their exceptional contributions to society.
- Tripura Bibhushan (Posthumous): Awarded to the eminent educationist Dhirendra Chandra Dutta.
- Tripura Bhushan: Conferred posthumously on former Speaker Bishwabandhu Sen and to noted screenplay writer Biplab Goswami (known for his work on Laapataa Ladies).
- Sachin Dev Burman Memorial State Award: Presented to renowned folk artist Surya Kumar Debbarma (Sadagar).
- Maharani Kanchanprabha Devi Memorial State Award: Awarded to Champa Das of Kamalghat for social service.
- Science and Environment Award: Conferred upon Dr. Arijit Das for his outstanding academic and environmental contributions.
Chief Minister’s Vision for ‘Srestha Tripura’
In his address, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha highlighted the state’s progress under the “Double Engine” government. He emphasized that Tripura is no longer on the margins but is becoming a key player in the “Act East Policy.”
“Tripura’s journey from 1972 to 2026 is a story of resilience and transformation. Our goal is to build a ‘Viksit Tripura’ by prioritizing connectivity, health, and education. We are working to realize the dreams of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur,” the Chief Minister stated.
Cultural Grandeur
The event featured a vibrant cultural showcase, including traditional tribal dances and musical performances that reflected the state’s rich ethnic diversity. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his greetings to the people of Tripura, praising the state’s blend of tradition and modernity.
