Lalit Kala Akademi Yet to Build Infrastructure in Tripura Despite Land Allocation, Raises Concern in Assembly

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, March 20, 2026

Concern has been raised in the Tripura Legislative Assembly over the failure of the Lalit Kala Akademi’s Northeast centre to develop infrastructure on land allotted by the state government.

Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury highlighted the issue on Thursday during the Question Hour, stating that although land was allocated in 2022, no visible progress has been made so far.

He pointed out that the Lalit Kala Akademi began its activities in Tripura in 2018 at Nazrul Kalakshetra, providing a platform for artists engaged in painting, graphics, ceramics, sculpture, and other visual arts. Many artists from the state are associated with the institution and are receiving a monthly stipend of Rs.20,000 from the central government.

However, due to the lack of infrastructure on the allotted land, the Akademi continues to operate from Nazrul Kalakshetra, leading to space constraints and limiting opportunities for artists. Chaudhury emphasized that many aspiring and practicing artists are being deprived of proper facilities and broader exposure due to this delay.

He urged the intervention of Chief Minister Manik Saha to resolve the matter at the earliest.

Responding to the concern, the Chief Minister expressed agreement and acknowledged the importance of establishing dedicated infrastructure for the Akademi. He stated that the state government is keen for the Akademi to utilize the allotted land and has already held multiple discussions with its officials.

Dr. Saha further noted that once the Akademi shifts to its own premises, Nazrul Kalakshetra can be better utilized for other cultural and public activities, thereby expanding its functional scope.

He assured the Assembly that the government would take renewed initiatives to ensure progress on the issue.

It may be noted that despite repeated communications from the state authorities, including requests from the Information and Cultural Affairs Department to shift operations, the Lalit Kala Akademi has yet to initiate construction on the allotted land, prolonging concerns over the development of Tripura’s visual arts infrastructure.

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