The recent inauguration of the New Integrated Terminal Building of Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport and the launching of key initiatives like the Mukhyamantri Tripura Gram Samridhi Yojana and Project Mission 100 by the Prime Minister have attracted national attention. These developments hold immense significance for the local community and the state of Tripura, marking a step towards opportune development.
About the Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport
The new terminal building at MBB Airport marks the first stride towards making the airport operational on an international level. The strategic location of the state, close to Bangladesh and providing easy accessibility to southeast Asian countries, adds to the airport’s potential. The interior design of the terminal boasts local tribal stone sculptures from Unakoti Hills and intricate bamboo handicrafts, reflecting the rich culture and heritage of Tripura.
The MBB Airport, originally known as the Agartala Airport, was constructed during the Second World War (1939-45) by the US Air Force in collaboration with King Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Debbarman. In 2018, the airport was renamed after this iconic ruler.
Who was Bir Bikram Kishore Debbarman?
Maharaja Colonel Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Debbarman Bahadur (1908–1947) is a celebrated figure in the history of Tripura, revered as the state’s pioneer king. He played a significant role in Tripura’s development, earning him the title “Father of Modern Architecture in Tripura”. King Debbarman initiated the modern-day planning of Tripura, introduced land reforms, and reserved land for the local Tripura tribes in 1939. This later facilitated the establishment of the Tripura Autonomous District Council.
Debbarman succeeded his father in August 1923 and remained the king until 1947. His son, Maharaja Kirit Bikram Kishore, succeeded him and was king for two years till India’s accession in 1949.
Mukhyamantri Tripura Gram Samridhi Yojana
The Mukhyamantri Tripura Gram Samridhi Yojana is a scheme aimed to bolster the livelihood of the rural population. This initiative promotes tap water for every household, housing, Ayushman coverage, insurance cover, Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facilities, and road construction. The scheme could boost the confidence of the rural population by enhancing their overall living conditions.
Project Mission 100 of Vidyajyoti Schools
The Project Mission 100 initiative aims to elevate the standard of education in Tripura by converting 100 existing high and higher secondary schools into Vidyajyoti Schools. These schools are expected to provide state-of-the-art facilities and quality education. The project will span across three years with a budget of around Rs. 500 crores, covering nearly 1.2 lakh students from nursery to Class XII.