Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for transforming the Northeast into a peaceful and development-driven region, stating that the era of violence and neglect is now behind. Speaking at the 2nd International Forensic Odontology Conference in Gandhinagar, Saha emphasized that the region, once synonymous with insurgency and isolation, is now witnessing unprecedented growth and integration with the national mainstream.
Saha’s remarks come ahead of PM Modi’s scheduled visit to Tripura on September 22, where he will inaugurate development projects at the Tripureshwari Temple and offer prayers. The Chief Minister’s comments also coincide with Modi’s visit to Manipur, his first since ethnic violence broke out over two years ago, signaling a renewed push for reconciliation and infrastructure expansion across the Northeast.
Peace and Progress: A New Chapter for the Northeast
According to CM Saha, the Northeast has undergone a dramatic transformation under PM Modi’s tenure, with Tripura now declared a “terror-free state.” He credited the central government’s sustained efforts, including peace accords with insurgent groups and improved law and order mechanisms, for the region’s stability.
| Key Indicators of Peace in Northeast | Status Since 2014 |
|---|---|
| Insurgency-related incidents | ↓ 70% |
| Peace accords signed | 12 (3 in Tripura) |
| Terrorism-related arrests | ↓ 60% |
| Civilian casualties | ↓ 80% |
| Tripura’s terror status | Declared terror-free |
Saha noted that the signing of multiple peace accords, including three in Tripura, has played a pivotal role in restoring normalcy. “Only violence prevailed in the past. Now, peace has prevailed due to the Centre’s efforts,” he said.
HIRA Model: Infrastructure as the Backbone of Transformation
The Chief Minister highlighted the HIRA model—Highways, Internet, Railways, and Airways—as a cornerstone of PM Modi’s Northeast policy. He stated that the region, once disconnected from the rest of India, now boasts national highways, railway connectivity, and improved digital infrastructure.
| HIRA Model Components | Northeast Progress |
|---|---|
| Highways | 4,500+ km built |
| Internet | 95% coverage |
| Railways | 8 new lines |
| Airways | 12 new airports |
Saha shared that during the Lok Sabha elections, he traveled by road and rail instead of using helicopters, underscoring the improved connectivity. “Earlier, students had to go outside for higher studies. Now, education, healthcare, and communication have all developed,” he added.
Ashtalakshmi Vision: From Seven Sisters to Eight Jewels
PM Modi’s rebranding of the Northeast as “Ashtalakshmi”—including Sikkim along with the traditional Seven Sisters—was praised by Saha as a symbolic and strategic move. “Until this Ashtalakshmi is developed, India’s development will remain incomplete,” he said.
| States in Ashtalakshmi | Development Focus |
|---|---|
| Arunachal Pradesh | Border infrastructure |
| Assam | Oil, gas, and tourism |
| Manipur | Sports and textiles |
| Meghalaya | Eco-tourism and mining |
| Mizoram | Bamboo and horticulture |
| Nagaland | Agro-forestry and crafts |
| Tripura | Rubber, tourism, and IT |
| Sikkim | Organic farming and hydropower |
The Ashtalakshmi vision aims to integrate these states into India’s growth story through targeted investments and cultural recognition.
PM Modi’s Upcoming Visit to Tripura
Saha confirmed that PM Modi will visit Tripura on September 22 to inaugurate development projects at the Tripureshwari Temple, one of the 51 Shaktipeethas. The temple has been developed as per the Prime Minister’s wishes, and Modi is expected to perform puja-archana during his visit.
| PM Modi’s Tripura Visit | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | September 22, 2025 |
| Venue | Tripureshwari Temple |
| Projects Inaugurated | Infrastructure, tourism, temple restoration |
| Religious Significance | One of 51 Shaktipeethas |
The visit is expected to further boost tourism and cultural pride in the state, while reinforcing the Centre’s commitment to regional development.
Education, Healthcare, and Youth Empowerment
Saha also highlighted improvements in education and healthcare, noting that students no longer need to migrate for higher studies. He credited PM Modi’s policies for the establishment of new institutions and hospitals across the region.
| Sector | Key Developments |
|---|---|
| Education | 15 new colleges, 3 universities |
| Healthcare | 12 district hospitals upgraded |
| Youth Affairs | Sports academies, NSS expansion |
He urged youth to participate in plantation drives and plastic-free campaigns, aligning with the Centre’s environmental goals.
Political Messaging and National Integration
Saha’s statements also carried a strong political message, contrasting PM Modi’s proactive engagement with previous governments’ neglect of the Northeast. “Earlier, the region was ignored. PM Modi has visited the Northeast more than 60 times. That shows his commitment,” he said.
| Political Engagement | PM Modi’s Record |
|---|---|
| Visits to Northeast | 60+ since 2014 |
| Peace Accords | 12 signed |
| Development Projects | ₹9,000 crore launched in Manipur |
Saha emphasized that the region now feels part of the national mainstream, with NEC meetings reflecting a sense of inclusion among Northeastern leaders.
Conclusion: A Peaceful and Prosperous Northeast Under Modi’s Vision
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha’s remarks underscore a broader narrative of transformation in the Northeast—one that blends peace, infrastructure, cultural pride, and national integration. With PM Modi’s continued focus on the region through the HIRA model, Ashtalakshmi vision, and strategic visits, the Northeast is shedding its legacy of conflict and stepping into a new era of opportunity.
As Tripura prepares to welcome the Prime Minister later this month, the message is clear: peace is not just the absence of violence—it’s the presence of development, dignity, and direction.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available government statements, verified news reports, and official data. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute political advice or endorsement. All figures and timelines are subject to change based on official updates.
