Tripura had to initiate the building of physical infrastructure from scratch. The state Government is working with all earnestness and the results are showing. The quality of national highways and state highways has been improving and rail connectivity till Agartala will be completed in a couple of months. Power capacity is being augmented and the telecommunication network is being strengthened.

On whether Tripura, as part of the north-east, feels “neglected” by the Centre, I think it is all about perspective and time. If one looks at the north-east from the perspective of its distance from the rest of country, the situation is that of disadvantage. The moment one looks at north-eastern states with respect to its geographical proximity to South East Asia, the situation is that of advantage. That’s why I emphasise that the Centre should implement the Look East policy with vigour and zeal. So far, action in this regard from the Centre has not been up to the mark.

As far as the belief that a lot of money is sanctioned for development in the north-east, but it does not always “show”, I can only speak about Tripura. The governance in Tripura is known for its transparency and accountability. Funds that have come for the development of the state have gone into the generation of assets. Already, Tripura’s success story in literacy and in achieving at par/better performance with respect to human indicators and development of physical infrastructure is well documented.

Further, the state Government has earned appreciation with regards to financial discipline. As of now, more than 94 per cent of the planned funds made available has been utilised. In the last 10 years of its functioning, the state Government has not subscribed to the Over Draft facility even once. This goes on to show the commitment the state Government has towards fiscal prudence.

... contd.