Tripura’s finances ‘sound’ but per capita income below national average: Arvind Panagariya

Agartala, Jan 30, 2025, By Our Correspondent

Agartala: Jan 30: Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, has praised Tripura's economic management and financial condition, calling it "well-managed" and "strong" . He made these remarks during a press conference, where he highlighted the state's economic issues in detail.

According to Dr. Panagariya, Tripura's per capita income is less than the national average, but the state is striving to keep pace with other states. He also noted that urbanization is happening rapidly in Tripura, and the state's dependence on agriculture is 30-35 percent, which is less than the national average.

The Tripura government has sought a 50 percent tax state share from the Center, up from the current 41 percent. Dr. Panagariya acknowledged the problems of North East India, including Tripura, and stated that these issues will be considered while making recommendations to the President .

The 16th Finance Commission has visited 17 states, including Tripura, and plans to visit eleven more states. Their recommendations will be submitted by October 2025 and will cover an award period of five years starting from April 1, 2026.