Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Monday emphasized the importance of showcasing the state’s rich and diverse cultural heritage on the global stage.

Speaking at the first meeting of the newly reconstituted State Cultural Advisory Committee held at Conference Hall of the State Secretariat, Dr. Saha said that culture plays a vital role in attaining both mental and spiritual peace and must be nurtured and promoted as a mass movement.

The Chief Minister, who also chairs the Cultural Advisory Committee, stated, “Culture is the ornament of a society. We must take innovative steps to modernize our culture in alignment with present-day needs while carefully preserving our traditional and composite heritage.”

The reconstituted committee comprises 39 members representing various sections of society.

Dr. Saha underscored the need to maintain the cultural traditions of both tribal and non-tribal communities while bringing innovation into cultural activities to attract the youth. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi frequently stresses skill development. Hence, we need to prioritize this in every field, including culture,” he said.

He also emphasized identifying talented artists from the grassroots and providing them with the necessary support, adding that efforts must be made to enhance the presentation and skill levels of artists across all domains in the state.

Highlighting the threats posed by modernization, the Chief Minister lamented the fading presence of traditional forms such as kirtan, puppet shows, and jatra (folk theatre). He called for a revival of these art forms through innovative approaches and appealed to everyone to participate in promoting healthy cultural practices and preserving the state’s traditions.

During the meeting, Vice-Chairman of the committee Subrata Chakraborty urged people from all communities, irrespective of caste or tribe, to come forward in preserving the state’s traditional culture.

Secretary of the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, Dr. P.K. Chakraborty, in his welcome address, elaborated on the department’s ongoing initiatives and revealed that 19 new cultural programmes have been added to the department’s 2025-26 annual calendar. So far, 24 cultural organizations in the state have received financial assistance this fiscal year.

He also proposed organizing a state signature festival, hosting “Tripura Idol” talent competitions from block to state level, and initiating steps towards drafting a comprehensive cultural policy.

The meeting also saw active participation and suggestions from various committee members. Director of the Tourism Department, Prashant Badal Negi, and Director of ICA, Bimbisar Bhattacharya, along with other officials, were also present.