Agartala, July 22: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha today inaugurated a commemorative event titled “Historic July: Footprints of the Tripura Legislative Assembly” at the Assembly lobby.
Highlighting the sanctity of democratic institutions, the Chief Minister said, “The Assembly is a sacred temple and a centre of learning for elected representatives. It is here that laws are enacted for the welfare and prosperity of the people.”
The theme of the event was “A Journey Through Memories – Towards Honour, Responsibility and Pride.” Dr. Saha reflected on the evolution of Tripura’s legislature, stating that the first Assembly was formed on July 1, 1963, and later shifted from the historic Ujjayanta Palace to its current location on July 22, 2011.
The month of July, he said, holds special significance in Tripura’s democratic journey, as the Assembly enters its 62nd glorious year. He called upon both ruling and opposition members to uphold the dignity and integrity of the Assembly and paid tribute to all former legislators.
Speaker Biswabandhu Sen, who presided over the event, remarked that Members of the Assembly are chosen with the blessings of God and the people. He described the Assembly as a centre that reflects the struggle and commitment of each legislator.
Agriculture and Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath recalled that Tripura’s first Assembly began with just 30 MLAs, marking the beginning of a democratic legacy.
Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma stressed the significance of the day, saying that the Assembly is the birthplace of crucial laws for public welfare.
Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Choudhury highlighted the uniqueness of India’s democracy, stating, “No other country in the world has such a vast and inclusive democratic structure.” He too marked the importance of July as the beginning of Tripura’s journey of democratic service.
Deputy Speaker Ram Prasad Paul delivered the welcome address. The event was attended by Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma, Chief Whip Kalyani Saha Roy, and several other legislators.
As part of the celebration, Chief Minister Dr. Saha, Speaker Biswabandhu Sen, and other dignitaries participated in a tree plantation drive on the Assembly premises, planting various species of mango saplings. The Forest Department distributed 250 mango saplings during the event.
Addressing the media, the Chief Minister emphasized the critical relationship between nature and human civilization. He urged both public representatives and citizens to rise in resistance against deforestation. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, Dr. Saha said over 1.42 lakh trees have been planted under the initiative in one year.
He added that a single mature tree provides around 260 pounds of oxygen and absorbs 48 pounds of carbon dioxideannually. Dr. Saha concluded by stating that tree plantation must be treated as a civic and moral responsibility by every citizen.
