New Delhi, Sep 04, 2024, TRIPURATIMES Desk

New Delhi, Sep 4: In a significant step to end violence and bring peace in Tripura, a peace agreement was signed between the governments at the Centre and the northeastern state and two insurgent groups of the state.

Besides Union Home Minister Amit Shah,

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha and senior officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the state government were present during the signing of the Memorandum of Settlement with the representatives of National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF).

The NLFT and the ATTF have agreed to end a 35-year-long conflict and return to the mainstream, renouncing violence and committing to building a prosperous and developed Tripura, reposing their trust in the Modi government, Shah said at North block here.

Shah said a new milestone is set today in Tripura's ongoing journey towards peace and progress with the signing of the agreement. "The signing of this agreement is a major milestone in fulfilling the resolve taken by the Modi government to develop the entire Northeast by combining the 'Ashtalakshmi' concept and 'Purvodaya'," he said.

He said the government is committed for all-round development of the northeastern region, especially tribals, while preserving their culture, language and identity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not only bridged the gap between the Northeast and Delhi by connecting them through roads, railways and flights, but has also bridged the gap between hearts, he said.

"The Modi government is committed for the overall development of the Northeast, especially the tribal groups, through development while preserving their culture, language and identity," he said, adding that the government has given highest priority to peace and development in the northeastern region.

The home minister asserted that all peace agreements signed in the Northeast have been implemented by the government.

The central government has been working tirelessly to fulfil Modi's vision of a developed Northeast, free from extremism, violence and conflict, Shah pointed out. The Centre has inked 12 important agreements to bring peace and prosperity in the Northeast, of which, three relate to Tripura. Around 10,000 people have given up arms and joined the mainstream due to these agreements.

Shah said over 328 insurgents will give up arms and join the mainstream and Rs 250 crore has been approved for development of area of operation of the two insurgent groups, particularly pockets dominated by the tribals.