AGARTALA: Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region and Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia on Sunday laid the foundation stone of the ₹450 crore Matabari Tourism Circuit at Narkel Kunja near Dumbur Lake in Tripura, marking a major push to spiritual and eco-tourism in the state.
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha joined the programme virtually, while State Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury was present at the site. The foundation-laying capped the minister’s three-day visit to Tripura, during which he announced development projects worth ₹750 crore across tourism, infrastructure and agro-based sectors.
Addressing the gathering, Scindia said the Matabari Tourism Circuit would integrate the Tripura Sundari Temple, Chabimura and Dumbur Lake, positioning the state on the global map of spiritual and eco-tourism. Of the total project cost, ₹276 crore will be funded by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER).
The project includes floating jetties, eco-friendly resorts, modern tourist amenities and culture-based immersive experiences, aimed at giving the Dumbur region a distinct international tourism identity.
Scindia said the circuit is expected to generate 4,000 to 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, with a targeted 30% participation of women. Self-help groups and local youth will be integrated into tourism services, while tour guides will receive professional training at premier institutions.
“We have not merely laid stones today; we have laid the foundation for future livelihoods,” the minister said, calling the project a blend of spirituality, nature and sustainable employment.
Highlighting the natural beauty of Dumbur Lake, Scindia described Tripura as a rare confluence of culture, ecology and spirituality, adding that the state’s hospitality would be key to attracting global tourists.
He said Tripura’s development aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Developed Northeast’, ‘Act East Policy’ and ‘Local to Global’, noting that strong Centre–State coordination has accelerated growth in the region.
Earlier during the visit, Scindia inaugurated and laid foundation stones for projects worth ₹220 crore in sectors including roads, healthcare, education and solar micro-grids. He also launched an ₹80 crore agarwood value-chain project to boost farmers’ incomes and link Tripura directly to international markets.
The minister said the Centre has approved 22 projects for engineered bamboo, branding it “Green Gold,” to promote sustainable industrial growth in the Northeast.
Scindia expressed confidence that Tripura would emerge as a self-reliant growth hub driven by tourism, agarwood, bamboo and infrastructure development.
