Tripura Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, during a high-level meeting in New Delhi with the 16th Finance Commission, made a strong appeal for increased financial support to address the state’s unique developmental needs. He specifically urged the Commission to allocate at least 20% of the total grants for forestry and ecology, citing their vital role in Tripura’s environmental balance and long-term economic sustainability.
Addressing representatives and policymakers from across the Northeast, Singha Roy stressed that Tripura’s growth strategy must prioritize ecological conservation due to the state’s heavy dependence on forest resources. He stated that forestry and ecological initiatives form the backbone of the rural economy, contribute significantly to livelihood, and help maintain environmental integrity. He emphasized that protecting these resources is essential for sustainable development and must be financially backed accordingly.
In his address, the Finance Minister also raised concerns about the persistent infrastructure challenges Tripura faces, especially the frequent road and rail disruptions during the monsoon season. These disruptions, he said, severely affect connectivity and economic activity in remote areas, particularly in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), which falls under the Sixth Schedule. Singha Roy urged the Commission to introduce a dedicated special grant mechanism for TTAADC to bridge regional disparities and promote equitable development.
The Minister also drew attention to other key sectors vital to Tripura’s economy, including agriculture, fisheries, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and tourism. He sought targeted financial grants to boost these areas, which he identified as primary drivers of employment and growth in the state. He specifically requested infrastructure funding for the fisheries sector, noting its potential to improve rural livelihoods and increase exports.
On the issue of border security, Singha Roy flagged growing concerns over drug trafficking along Tripura’s international border. He recommended the deployment of additional police forces to tighten surveillance and protect national and regional interests.
Furthermore, he highlighted the strategic importance of cross-border trade with Bangladesh for Tripura’s economy, particularly the medical tourism sector. However, he acknowledged that political instability in Bangladesh has had a negative impact on trade and tourism. He appealed to the Finance Commission to consider such external factors while assessing the state’s fiscal needs and to provide support that can buffer the economic effects of such uncertainties.
Citing Tripura’s limited revenue-generating capacity and existing fiscal constraints, the Minister called for increased financial assistance from the Centre. He presented a detailed roadmap for the state’s inclusive and sustainable development, emphasizing the need for targeted and region-specific support.
The meeting was chaired by the Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission and saw participation from Chief Ministers and Finance Ministers of all Northeastern states. The dialogue focused on addressing the region’s developmental challenges and the need for adequate, equitable, and targeted fiscal measures to support growth across diverse geographies. Singha Roy concluded his presentation by reinforcing Tripura’s commitment to responsible governance and its aspiration for balanced and inclusive growth, contingent on strong financial backing from the central government.