Agartala, Oct 09: Three-day traditional ‘Neermahal Jal Festival’ concluded at Rajghat in Melaghar under Sepahijala district on Friday. The festival had commenced on October 7. A boat race (Nouka Baich) competition was organized as part of the closing ceremony, where Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha was present.

The Chief Minister said, Neermahal carries history and a legacy. It symbolizes the royal culture. The story of the beauty of Neermahal is not confined to Tripura or the Northeast, but goes beyond, to the rest of India and even to the global stage. 

He said, Neermahal is one of the prime attractions of Tripura tourism. 

The state government is thinking of making it more attractive to the tourists. In the context of Neermahal Festival’s significance, the Chief Minister said, this festival aims to promote rural and local art and culture and create economic opportunities for people. 

He suggested organizing Neermahal Festival not just once a year, but several times. 

As a result, more people will get more attracted to it boosting economy further and its significance in the world tourism sector will rise. He said, centering this festival arrival of foreign tourists will boost the local economy. 

Higher Education Minister Kishore Barman, who presided over the closing programme, thanked all the organizing departments and local people for this successful festival. 

Welcome address was delivered by the DM, Sepahijala, Dr. Siddharth Shiv Jaiswal. Other dignitaries at the event included Sabhadhipati of Sepahijala Zila Parishad Supriya Das Datta, MLA Tafazzal Hossain, SP Bijoy Debbarma, Chairman of Mohanbhog Panchayat Samiti Sribas Bhowmik, Chairperson of Melaghar Municipal Council Anamika Ghosh Pal Roy and others. 

At the event prizes were distributed among the winners of Manasamangal competition, swimming competition and Nouka Baiche. The first, second and third rank holders were awarded. The Chief Minister and other guests handed over the prizes to the winners.