Agartala: Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, revenue generated from Tripura’s tourism sector has doubled over the last six years, according to Tripura Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury.
Addressing media personnel at the Geetanjali Tourism Guest House in Agartala, the Minister attributed this achievement to significant investments in the renovation and redevelopment of tourist destinations, which he said have resulted in a substantial increase in tourist footfall.
“Comparing the revenue from the five years prior to the current government coming to power, the tourism sector generated Rs 15.52 crore. From 2018 to 2024, the revenue stands at Rs 31.25 crore, even with two years of Covid-induced restrictions adversely impacting the sector,” Chowdhury stated.
Providing further details, the Minister highlighted that between 2013 and 2018, Tripura received a total of 20,48,780 tourists, including 18,69,376 domestic visitors and 1,79,404 foreign tourists. In contrast, from 2018 to 2024, the total number of tourists increased to 26,20,190, comprising 21,90,363 domestic tourists and 4,29,828 foreign visitors.
Chowdhury credited the government’s proactive approach to tourism development, pointing out that during the previous Left Front government, the tourism budget stood at Rs 82.84 crore. In comparison, the current administration has allocated Rs 529 crore for the renovation of existing tourist destinations and the development of new ones with significant potential.
Reacting to comments made by former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar about the recently concluded Tourism Promo Fest 2024, Chowdhury dismissed claims that Rs 7 crore was spent on the event. “Not even one-third of the amount mentioned by the former Chief Minister was spent. The Central Government provides funds to states for organizing cultural festivals. The Tourism Promo Fest, which concluded on December 14, received an overwhelming response, with a historic turnout during the Shreya Ghoshal live concert,” he said.
The Minister also criticized the Left parties for their lack of effort in promoting tourism during their tenure, emphasizing that minimal investment during the Left regime hindered the sector’s growth.
With a substantial increase in tourist footfall and revenue, the government’s focus on improving infrastructure and creating new tourist destinations appears to be paying off, placing Tripura on the tourism map with renewed vigor.
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