Tripura CM demands raising cap of externally aided projects to Rs 10,000 crore

Agartala, Jul 7 (PTI) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Tuesday pitched for increasing the annual cap on externally aided projects from Rs 4,000 crore to Rs 10,000 crore, saying the existing limit hampers the execution of large infrastructure projects in small states. The chief minister said the Centre has fixed a maximum limit of Rs 4,000 crore per annum for externally aided projects in Tripura, which often falls short for undertaking mega development works. Addressing a government programme at Bardowali, Saha said development activities have gathered pace under the "double-engine government" to meet people's expectations. "Massive infrastructure building is taking place in the northeastern state over the past few years, from implementation of the Smart City Mission to the Lighthouse project, strengthening the power sector and beautification of urban amenities," he said. "I have categorically demanded an increase in the maximum cap for externally aided projects from Rs 4,000 crore to Rs 10,000 crore in the presence of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the last NEC plenary session in Shillong. I hope the Centre will consider our legitimate demand for development," he said. Saha said he had inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of development projects worth Rs 1,500 crore in the past year to accelerate infrastructure creation. The state has rejuvenated water bodies in Agartala for Rs 137 crore and spent Rs 581 crore under the Smart City Mission to improve civic amenities, he said. Claiming that investors and entrepreneurs are showing keen interest in Tripura, the CM said projects worth Rs 8,000 crore out of investment proposals valued at Rs 15,000 crore received during last year's investment summit have already been grounded. He said the state has set a target of attracting MoUs worth Rs 1 lakh crore during the 'Destination Tripura: Business Conclave 2026', scheduled to be held on July 9 and 10 at the International Fair Ground in Hapania in West Tripura district. PTI PS SOM