Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha on Saturday said the state government is laying strong emphasis on creating alternative employment opportunities alongside government jobs to improve the socio-economic condition of the people and promote self-reliance.

He said empowering women and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for them remain key priorities of the government in its efforts to build a self-reliant Tripura.

The Chief Minister was speaking at a programme organised jointly by the Fire and Emergency Services and Skill Development Department at Muktadhara Auditorium in Agartala. The programme was held to distribute job offers and sewing machines to beneficiaries.

During the programme, Dr. Saha virtually inaugurated the newly constructed Fire Service Station at Manu Bankul in Sabroom. The station was built at a cost of Rs. 2.45 crore.

As part of the event, appointment offers were handed over to 16 candidates for the post of driver in the Fire and Emergency Services Department, while 180 women received sewing machines under the Chief Minister's Skill Development Project. The Chief Minister formally handed over appointment letters to five candidates and sewing machines to five women.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Saha said the government is committed not only to the overall development of the state but also to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens. He stressed the need for adequate manpower and modern infrastructure in the fire and emergency services.

According to the Chief Minister, the state currently has 52 fire service stations, while new stations have been established at several locations, including Gorji, Boxanagar and Ganganagar in Dhalai district. He said fire service stations would also be established at five more locations.

Addressing the newly appointed employees, Dr. Saha said government service carries the responsibility of serving the people and requires honesty, commitment and perseverance.

He urged fire service personnel to remain alert and vigilant at all times and discharge their duties with dedication to protect the lives and property of citizens.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the government's efforts to make women economically self-reliant through skill development and alternative livelihood opportunities.

He said women are being provided training under the Chief Minister's Skill Development Project and subsequently linked with various self-employment opportunities.

According to Dr. Saha, 2,130 women have benefited from the project during the financial year 2026-27 so far, reflecting the government's focus on expanding livelihood opportunities beyond conventional government employment.