Tripura elections generate business for flag makers

Tripura, Feb 11 : Political parties in Tripura are generating business for the residents engaged in the task of making flags and posters ahead of the state elections slated for February 23.

"We are getting orders for printing of posters in thousands though we had presumed that we would get orders only for a few hundred posters. The orders are increasing day-by-day. Our machines are printing nonstop for the last 20-25 days, and we are yet to complete the target," said K. Dey, flex printing unit owner.

The banners displayed in every nook and corner of the street as a part of publicity has given scope to the people to earn money.

For the people involved in the making of posters and other campaign props, election is a golden opportunity as it generates good income.

With the introduction of computers and graphics, the poster making technique has also undergone tremendous change.

"This is electronic age so people are laying more stress on designing to get unique pattern with the help of graphics generated through computers. The demand of these computer designed graphics is high, as people now don't go for handmade work and look for variety resulting in the increase of orders," said Ajay Das, an owner of printing unit.

Tailors are also busy making flags, carpenters are constructing frames for fixing posters, flexes and banners while the flex makers along with the graphic designers are working round the clock designing posters and fulfilling orders from various political parties.

As a part of their election campaign, parties are actively engaged in organising big rallies and meetings.

Voting in will take place on February 23 and counting of ballots will take place on March 7.

The five-year term of the 60-member state assembly ends in March.

About 50 tribal and other rebel groups are fighting against Central rule, demanding either independence or greater political autonomy in the State.

The rebels accuse Centre for exploiting the region's rich mineral resources and neglecting the local economy.

ANI