Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya M. Scindia on Wednesday chaired a review meeting on the development of the Matabari Tourism Circuit in Tripura, joined by Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha.
Minister of State for DoNER Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, along with senior officials from MDoNER and the state government, participated in the discussions.
The meeting emphasized capacity building and meaningful engagement of local communities in tourism opportunities. Ensuring sustained livelihoods for residents through tourism development emerged as a key priority for the circuit’s success.
Scindia stressed that Tripura’s historians should be actively involved in the tourism ecosystem, training guides and assistants to impart authentic knowledge of the state’s history. This process should be institutionalized, blending traditional knowledge with modern training practices.
The discussions highlighted that Tripura’s appeal lies in preserving history within its antiquity while adopting a modern, organic approach. Development must visibly reflect Tripura’s heritage while maintaining soft aesthetics throughout the circuit.
Promoting local Tripura cuisine was identified as an integral component of the visitor experience. The circuit will also include a high-end, niche segment to attract major hospitality players, blended with mass tourism offerings for maximum benefit.
Tripura’s Tourism Minister was advised to position the Matabari circuit as a guidance model and benchmark not only for the Northeast but for tourism development across India.
The meeting concluded with appreciation for Chief Minister Saha’s leadership in shaping a balanced approach to tourism development in Tripura.