Tripura CM Saha highlights the role of NGOs in educating Janajati students, notes that 85% tribal households now have drinking water, and announces telecom and sports infrastructure upgrades. BSNL and Airtel are installing towers in tribal areas to boost connectivity.
In a address today at Rabindra Bhawan in Agartala, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha emphasized the crucial role of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in promoting education among the Janajati (tribal) communities in the state. Speaking at a felicitation event for meritorious students from Janajati backgrounds, Dr. Saha outlined the state’s ongoing efforts in education, water supply, telecom development, and youth empowerment.
The event was organized to honor students residing in NGO-managed hostels who excelled in the recent Madhyamik and Higher Secondary examinations. Dr. Saha lauded their achievements and reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive development.
“NGOs are playing a vital role in complementing the government’s initiatives to ensure quality education for Janajati students. Today, around 16,500 students are staying in 192 hostels managed by these dedicated NGOs. They are laying the foundation for a more educated and empowered future,” said the Chief Minister.
Dr. Saha stressed that education has no age limit and encouraged students to be relentless in their pursuit of knowledge. “Students are the ambassadors of Tripura and the world. I feel immensely proud that students living in NGO-run hostels have done so well in their board exams,” he said.
He also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the upliftment of Janajati communities. “PM Modi works for holistic development. Under his leadership, we are safer and more confident. The world has seen how India handled situations like Operation Sindoor. We do not initiate conflict, but we are now capable of defending ourselves strongly. What PM Modi promises, he delivers,” said Dr. Saha.
Highlighting progress in basic amenities, the Chief Minister revealed that 85% of Janajati households in Tripura now have access to drinking water, a major leap in improving public health and quality of life in tribal areas. “Earlier, our Janajati brothers and sisters had to suffer due to lack of drinking water. But today, even in the remotest areas, we are finding innovative ways to provide access to clean water,” he said.
Dr. Saha also mentioned significant achievements in recognizing tribal identity and culture. “Our traditional Risha attire has been granted a GI tag, and around seven Janajati individuals have received the prestigious Padma Shri award. Though Tripura is the third smallest state in the country, we are performing exceptionally well in many sectors,” he noted.
Telecommunication and digital connectivity were other key issues addressed. Dr. Saha informed the gathering that both BSNL and Airtel are working to install mobile towers in Janajati regions to enhance connectivity. “This will boost education, communication, and economic activities in these areas,” he said.
The development of sports infrastructure, particularly in football, was also highlighted as a tool for youth engagement and empowerment. “Janajati youths are showing excellent performance in football. To encourage their talent, we are constructing turf football grounds in tribal-dominated areas,” the Chief Minister added.
He also referenced the central government’s initiative, Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Utkarsh Abhiyan, which aims to provide various essential services to tribal communities across the country.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Tribal Welfare Minister Bikas Debbarma and social worker Bipin Debbarma. Both applauded the efforts of NGOs, the government, and the students for their collective achievements.
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The event served not only to honor student success but also as a platform to reaffirm the state government’s dedication to the holistic development of Janajati communities. The combination of educational, infrastructural, cultural, and digital initiatives paints a hopeful future for tribal communities in Tripura.
