Tripura

Tripura is one of the north-eastern states of India, known for its rich cultural heritage, lush greenery, and historical significance. Despite being the third-smallest state in the region, it boasts remarkable ethnic diversity and a blend of tribal and non-tribal traditions. The state occupies a strategic location, sharing borders with Bangladesh on three sides and connecting the north-eastern region to the Indian mainland.

Geographical Features

Tripura lies between latitudes 22°56′N and 24°32′N, covering an area of approximately 10,491 square kilometres. It is bordered by Bangladesh to the north, south, and west, while the Indian states of Assam and Mizoram lie to the east. The state’s capital is Agartala, situated near the western border with Bangladesh.
The terrain of Tripura is mostly hilly, with valleys and plains interspersed among small mountain ranges. The main hill ranges include the Jampui, Longtharai, Shakhan, and Atharamura Hills. The major rivers flowing through the state are the Gomati, Howrah, Manu, Khowai, and Feni, most of which originate from the hills and flow westwards into Bangladesh.
Tripura has a humid tropical climate, with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June to September) and mild winters. The fertile alluvial soil supports extensive cultivation, while dense forests cover about 60% of the state’s area, making it one of the greenest regions in India.

Historical Background

Tripura’s history is among the oldest in the north-east, with references in ancient Indian texts such as the Mahabharata and Puranas. The state was once part of the Tripuri Kingdom, ruled by the Manikya dynasty for several centuries. The dynasty’s rule began around the 15th century and continued until India’s independence.
The capital was originally at Udaipur, later shifted to Agartala in the 19th century. The Manikya rulers maintained close cultural and political ties with Bengal, as reflected in the region’s architecture, language, and art. King Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, the last ruler, is credited with modernising the state’s administration and founding Maharaja Bir Bikram College in Agartala.
After India gained independence, Tripura acceded to the Indian Union on 15 October 1949, becoming a Union Territory in 1956 and later attaining full statehood on 21 January 1972 under the North Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act.

Demography and Society

According to the 2011 Census, Tripura has a population of about 3.67 million. The state exhibits a unique demographic composition — approximately one-third of the population belongs to various Scheduled Tribes, while the rest are primarily Bengali-speaking non-tribal communities.
The major tribal groups include the Tripuri, Reang (Bru), Jamatia, Noatia, Halam, Chakma, Mog, and Garo communities. Each tribe has its own distinct language, dress, and social customs, yet they coexist harmoniously with non-tribal groups. Kokborok, spoken by the Tripuri people, is the principal tribal language and one of the state’s official languages alongside Bengali and English.
Tripura’s society is known for its communal harmony and cultural integration. Festivals such as Kharchi Puja, Garia Puja, Durga Puja, and Ker Puja reflect the synthesis of tribal and Bengali traditions.

Economy and Industry

Tripura’s economy is primarily agrarian, with agriculture and allied activities providing livelihood to the majority of the population. The main crops include rice, pulses, oilseeds, and jute. The state is also known for pineapple, jackfruit, rubber, bamboo, and tea cultivation, with Tripura tea gaining recognition for its quality.
Rubber plantation has emerged as a major economic activity, making Tripura the second-largest rubber-producing state in India after Kerala. Bamboo-based industries, handloom weaving, and handicrafts contribute significantly to the rural economy.
Industrial development in the state is limited due to geographical constraints and lack of connectivity, though recent infrastructure projects have improved trade and transportation. Natural gas, found in abundance, supports industries in power generation and manufacturing. Agartala Gas Turbine Power Station and ONGC’s operations play vital roles in the energy sector.
Tripura’s proximity to Bangladesh has opened up new avenues for cross-border trade through routes such as the Akhaura Integrated Check Post and the Feni Bridge, enhancing economic cooperation and regional connectivity.

Culture and Heritage

Tripura’s cultural identity is shaped by a harmonious fusion of tribal and Bengali influences. The state’s tribal communities are known for their vibrant dances, music, and colourful attire. Popular traditional dances include Hojagiri (Reang tribe), Garia, and Lebang Boomani, often performed during harvest and religious festivals.
The state’s handicrafts, particularly bamboo and cane products, are renowned for their craftsmanship. Traditional bamboo work, tribal ornaments, and handwoven fabrics like risa and rignai represent the artistic skills of the people.
Tripura’s cuisine reflects its diversity, featuring dishes made from fish, bamboo shoots, and fermented foods. The tribal dish Mui Borok, consisting of fish and vegetables, is particularly famous.
Architecturally, the Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala stands as an iconic landmark. Built during the reign of Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya (1899–1901), it now houses the Tripura State Museum, showcasing the state’s cultural and historical artefacts. Other notable sites include the Neermahal Palace, a water palace built in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake, and ancient temples such as Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur.

Administration and Political Structure

Tripura has a unicameral Legislative Assembly and functions under a parliamentary system of governance. The Governor serves as the constitutional head, while the Chief Minister heads the Council of Ministers. Administratively, the state is divided into eight districts — Dhalai, Gomati, Khowai, North Tripura, Sepahijala, South Tripura, Unakoti, and West Tripura.
A significant portion of the state’s territory falls under the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), established in 1985 under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The Council has legislative and executive powers over tribal affairs and plays a key role in preserving indigenous governance systems.

Education and Institutions

Tripura has made impressive progress in literacy and education. With a literacy rate of around 87% (2011 Census), it is among the most literate states in India. Educational institutions such as Tripura University (Central University), National Institute of Technology (Agartala), and ICFAI University contribute to higher learning and research.
Government schemes emphasise expanding technical and vocational education, while initiatives like Mission 100 Vidyajyoti Schools aim to improve school infrastructure and quality education.

Tourism and Natural Attractions

Tripura’s natural beauty and cultural heritage make it a growing tourist destination. Key attractions include:

• Ujjayanta Palace – a magnificent royal palace in Agartala.
• Neermahal – India’s only water palace, blending Hindu and Mughal architectural styles.
• Tripura Sundari Temple (Udaipur) – one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.
• Unakoti – an archaeological site with ancient rock-cut sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Jampui Hills – known for scenic views and orange plantations.
• Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary – home to clouded leopards and migratory birds.
• Pilak and Devtamura – sites showcasing ancient Buddhist and Hindu carvings.

The state government promotes eco-tourism, rural tourism, and cultural tourism as sustainable models of development.

Challenges and Development

Despite steady progress, Tripura faces challenges such as limited connectivity, unemployment, and dependence on agriculture. The state’s hilly terrain and landlocked position have historically hindered industrial growth. However, the completion of the Agartala-Akhaura railway link and improved road networks under the Act East Policy have enhanced accessibility.
Efforts are also underway to strengthen healthcare, digital connectivity, and employment through skill development programmes and infrastructure investment.