Agartala, Aug 15: Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Saturday called upon the people of the state to join hands in building a developed and self-reliant Tripura by 2047, saying Independence Day celebrations represent the country’s shared commitment to national unity and progress.

Addressing the state-level Independence Day celebrations at the Assam Rifles Ground in Agartala, Dr. Saha hoisted the national flag and paid homage to freedom fighters and nation-builders whose sacrifices laid the foundation of an independent India.

Highlighting India’s economic and social transformation over the eight decades since Independence, the Chief Minister said the country has emerged as a major global economic power, with its GDP crossing the $4-trillion mark.

He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership over the past 12 years for driving an “aspirational India” based on the principles of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas'.

Dr. Saha said several central welfare initiatives have focused on improving the lives of farmers, women, youth and economically weaker sections, adding that Tripura has also been pursuing development in line with the Centre’s vision.

According to the Chief Minister, the state government is working to expand economic opportunities and improve living standards for nearly 40 lakh people. He claimed that Tripura’s GDP has doubled in six years, while the state’s per capita income has reached the national average.

He pointed to progress in agriculture, industry, healthcare, education, infrastructure, women’s empowerment, youth development and environmental protection as key indicators of the state’s development journey.

Dr. Saha said these initiatives were aimed at fulfilling the vision of “Ek Tripura, Shreshtha Tripura” and urged citizens to contribute collectively to the state’s transformation while upholding the values of patriotism, unity and self-reliance.

The Independence Day celebrations also featured a series of colourful cultural programmes. Performances showcasing patriotism, traditional art and Tripura’s cultural heritage added vibrancy to the celebrations and echoed the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. The Chief Minister also presented various awards to the tripura Police and TSR personnel in the presence of Tripura DGP G.S. Rao.