Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology today highlighted Tripura's immense potential, stating that the state has the opportunity not only to be a new engine of India’s growth but also to lead as the “engine of New India,” inspiring other states to follow.

Speaking at the launch of the State Innovation Mission (SIM) at the International Exhibition Centre, Hapania, Agartala, the Minister congratulated the Tripura government for taking the initiative.

“This is the first-ever State Innovation Commission in India. By establishing the State Innovation Mission—or SIAM—you have taken the lead and shown the way for other states and Union Territories. I am confident that this journey, beginning in one of India’s easternmost states, will gradually inspire innovation across the country,” he said.

Reflecting on the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), the Minister noted that it was a visionary idea introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “Many of us were unfamiliar with this concept initially. Unlike the Planning Commission, later NITI Aayog, AIM was entirely novel—a bold experiment. Looking back over the past 7–8 years, the outcomes have been truly remarkable,” he added.

The Minister emphasized that the State Innovation Mission in Agartala is a testament to Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a “double engine effect.” “The engine ignited by the Prime Minister has been accelerated by Chief Minister Manik Saha. This initiative reflects the spirit of cooperative and competitive federalism, showing that when states innovate, the nation progresses as a whole,” he said.

Highlighting the region’s infrastructure transformation, the Minister noted that states like Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh had historically lacked train connectivity. Today, Agartala is linked by rail to Bangladesh, and its airport has evolved from a small shed-like facility with limited flights to a modern hub connecting the Northeast to major Indian cities. “This transformation has opened doors for youth, tourism, and business. Students can now travel easily, and young talent from Nagaland, Mizoram, and beyond is coming here to contribute,” he said.

The Union MoS also underscored Tripura’s unique natural resources, particularly bamboo and rubber, highlighting their vast potential. “Bamboo is incredibly versatile—you can make furniture, panels, paper, jewelry, toothbrushes, even food products. Yet, its potential remains underutilized. Fully leveraging this resource could drive Tripura’s growth and position it as a key contributor to India’s development story,” he stated.

Concluding his address, the Minister reiterated, “With its exclusive avenues and abundant potential, Tripura is not just poised to be the new engine of India’s growth, as the Prime Minister says the Northeast will be, but it could lead as the engine of New India, setting an example for the rest of the country.”