Tripura has recorded a sharp decline in overall crime rate, ranking third from the bottom among India’s 28 states, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said during the 79th Independence Day celebrations at the Assam Rifles ground on Friday.

According to official data, he said, the state records 110 cases per one lakh population, far below the national average of 422 cases. In crimes against women, Tripura ranks eighth-lowest, with 37 cases per one lakh population against the national average of 66.

The overall crime rate has been steadily declining — down by 19.4% in 2024 compared to 2023, and a further 12.35% drop in the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. The Chief Minister credited the relentless efforts of Tripura Police in law enforcement for this achievement.

To create a safer and more women-friendly environment, the state has set up 24×7 Women Help Desks in all police stations, operates a 1091 Women’s Helpline, and maintains nine Women Police Stations, one in each district.

On the anti-narcotics front, Dr. Saha reaffirmed his government’s commitment to a “Drug-Free Tripura,” noting a 106% increase in narcotics seizures and a 132% rise in drug disposal in 2024 compared to 2023.

Highlighting the state government’s major achievements in various fields, the Chief Minister said the administration has been working tirelessly for economic growth, quality education, healthcare, tribal welfare, women’s empowerment, social welfare, employment generation, and human resource development.

Tripura, he said, is moving towards the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

After hoisting the national flag at the Assam Rifles Ground, the Chief Minister inspected the parade of the combined forces. The parade featured 16 platoons from both security and non-security groups. During the ceremony, the Chief Minister decorated several officers and personnel of the state police force who had received medals at different times for their special contributions in their line of duty.

In the parade competition, the 15th Battalion TSR (Women) claimed first place in the security category, followed by BSF and the 14th Battalion TSR (Men). In the non-security category, Assam Rifles Public School took the top spot, with NCC Boys and NSS in second and third places respectively.

The event also featured a vibrant cultural programme organized by the School Education Department, the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, and the Youth Affairs and Sports Department, with participation from school students.

Dr. Saha also announced that the government has begun work on five new schemes for 2025–26: Mukhyamantri Shasya Shyamala Yojana, Mukhyamantri Balika Samriddhi Yojana, Chief Minister’s Scheme for Mentally Challenged Persons, Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana, and Chief Minister’s Assistance for Daughter/Son of Army and CRPF Personnel.

The Chief Minister expressed hope that with everyone’s participation, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the dream of a “Viksit Bharat” and “Ek tripura Shresta Tripura” will be realized.

During his speech, the Chief Minister quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s words that “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) is not just a government programme but a people’s movement. Giving priority to indigenous thinking, he said, the country must be built through the use of indigenous products. In technology, innovation, start-ups, research, and manufacturing, maximum importance should be given to indigenous ideas.

At the main celebration, the Chief Minister paid deep respect to those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence. He also extended heartfelt greetings to the brave soldiers of the Indian Armed forces who successfully carried out “Operation Sindoor” to suppress Pakistan-backed terrorists.

He said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the successful execution of this operation and the fitting response to Pakistani aggression has showcased the valour and bravery of India’s soldiers.

MP Rajya Sabha Rajib Bhattacharjee, Deputy Speaker of Tripura Legislative Assembly Ramprasad Paul, Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha, Director General of Police Anurag and several other officials of general administration and police were present in the programme.