Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr Manik Saha has said that the state government is exploring ways to make Neermahal more attractive to tourists, highlighting its historical significance and architectural beauty as major assets for Tripura’s tourism sector.
The Chief Minister was speaking at the concluding ceremony of the three-day traditional Neermahal Water Festival, which began on October 7 and concluded on Friday at Melaghar. The final day featured a traditional boat race organized at Rudrasagar Lake, inaugurated by the Chief Minister.
Describing Neermahal as a symbol of Tripura’s history and heritage, Dr Saha said its beauty and cultural significance were recognized not only across Tripura and Northeast India but also throughout the country and abroad. He identified Neermahal as one of the major attractions of the state’s tourism industry and said the government was considering measures to make it more appealing to visitors.
Emphasizing the importance of the festival, the Chief Minister said its objectives included promoting rural culture, traditional art and heritage while creating economic opportunities for local people. He suggested organizing the Neermahal Water Festival several times a year instead of holding it only once, observing that more frequent events could attract additional visitors and help Tripura gain greater recognition as a tourist destination.
Dr Saha also expressed hope that increased tourist arrivals, including foreign visitors, would contribute to economic development in the surrounding areas.
Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman presided over the programme and thanked the organizing committee, participating departments and local residents for their cooperation in making the festival successful.
Sepahijala District Magistrate and Collector Dr Siddharth Shiv Jaiswal delivered the welcome address. Among those present were Sepahijala Zilla Parishad chairperson Supriya Das Dutta, MLA Tafajjal Hossain, Sepahijala Superintendent of Police (SP) Bijoy Debbarma, Mohanbhog Panchayat Samiti chairperson Shribas Bhowmik, Melaghar Municipal Council chairperson Anamika Ghosh Paul and other distinguished guests.
Competitions in ‘Manasa Mangal’, traditional boat racing and swimming were held as part of the festival. Prizes were distributed among the first-, second- and third-place winners in the respective events by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries.