BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 24th January 2026: The five-day traditional Netaji Mela, organized to mark the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was inaugurated yesterday at the Melaghar Kalibari premises. The event was formally opened by Kishor Barman, Minister for Higher Education, Panchayats, and General Administration (Political) of the state, who attended as the chief guest.
Barman was accompanied by Anamika Ghosh Pal Ray, Chairperson of Melaghar Municipal Council, and Pabitra Kumar Das, President of Rudrasagar Refugee Fishermen’s Cooperative Society, along with representatives of social organizations, public figures, and guests.
In his keynote address, Minister Barman remarked, “History books may record Jawaharlal Nehru as India’s first Prime Minister, but the conscience of history will say Netaji was the first Prime Minister who laid the foundation of the nation. Netaji did not seek power; he sought to claim it. Nehru inherited a state, while Netaji aspired to build one.”
Criticizing the role of Congress and the Left, he alleged that Netaji’s ideals were deliberately sidelined. “Congress and CPM feared Netaji’s vision, and attempts were made to corner him in history. For decades after independence, his contributions were systematically concealed. The history of the Azad Hind Fauj was excluded from textbooks, and even uttering Netaji’s name was uncomfortable for many,” he said.
Highlighting the present government’s approach, Barman stated, “Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Netaji has returned not just to memory but to the center of national policy. The abrogation of Article 370, a robust national security framework, and a self-reliant defense system are all reflections of Netaji’s vision of a strong nation.” He further added that Netaji’s unfinished dream is gradually becoming reality, as India today speaks the language of sovereignty rather than mere power.
Calling upon the younger generation to embrace Netaji’s ideals, Barman emphasized, “Netaji is not just a hero of history; he is a guiding light for India’s future.”
The five-day fair has created a festive atmosphere across Melaghar, with cultural programs, discussion sessions, and various social initiatives planned to showcase and spread Netaji’s philosophy.
