In a landmark development, two insurgent groups in Tripura have formally agreed to lay down their arms and integrate into the mainstream, following a historic peace agreement signed with the Central and State governments. With this agreement, Tripura has achieved the significant milestone of being free from insurgent groups for the first time in many decades.

"Today is a historic day for us. The struggle that we saw for the last 35 years, today I'm glad these groups have put down weapons and are walking on the path to peace," Union Home Minister Amit Shah said.

The two insurgent groups involved in the peace agreement are the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF). According to Mr. Shah, a total of 328 members from these groups who have surrendered their arms will now be integrated into society.

"We have invested ₹ 2,500 crore for development of this region as well. We are not only signing peace agreements but also implementing them on the ground," the Home Minister said.

"Under the leadership of PM Modi, the government has signed 12 important agreements to bring peace and prosperity in the northeast region, of which three relate to Tripura," he said and added that 10,000 people have given up arms and joined the mainstream due to these agreements.

Pradyot Manikya Debburman, the founder of the Tipra Motha Party, which is now an alliance partner of the BJP government in the state, also played a crucial role in the peace-building process in Tripura.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the state government, were present at the signing of the peace agreement.

Image source: Patrika