Agartala

Manik Saha on Monday said India has witnessed extensive redevelopment and protection of ancient history, culture, traditions and temples since Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014.

Addressing the Somnath Swabhiman Parv in Agartala, Saha said the historic Somnath Temple in Gujarat had faced repeated attacks through history but continued to stand as a symbol of India’s ancient religious pride.

The programme marked 1,000 years since the 1026 invasion of the Somnath temple by Mahmud of Ghazni.

Referring to historical attacks on the shrine, Saha said that despite invasions during the periods associated with figures such as Alauddin Khilji, Zafar Khan and Aurangzeb, people repeatedly came forward to rebuild the temple and preserve what he described as the pride of Indian civilisation.

The chief minister said the current central government has prioritised the redevelopment of religious and cultural sites across the country—an effort he said was not witnessed under previous administrations.

He added that while the world is changing rapidly, it remains important not to lose touch with cultural roots, traditions and spiritual heritage.

Saha also said the state government has initiated redevelopment of religious structures across Tripura.

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Earlier in the day, he offered prayers at Shivbari Temple as part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv observances.