Financial literacy gaps hinder banking inclusion of Bru families in Tripura, delaying welfare benefits and subsidies. Improved documentation, awareness programmes, and banking outreach are vital for successful resettlement, economic stability, and long-term social inclusion of displaced tribal communities.
The importance of financial literacy among Bru (Reang) families in Tripura is becoming increasingly evident, as limited awareness and documentation gaps continue to prevent many households from accessing formal banking services and government welfare benefits. Despite structured rehabilitation efforts, a large section of the community remains outside the formal financial system.
Officials and banking institutions have observed that many Bru families face difficulties in opening bank accounts or availing institutional financial services due to a lack of understanding of banking procedures. Although government guidelines clearly mandate essential documents such as Aadhaar cards, ration cards, Permanent Resident of Tripura Certificates (PRTC), and Scheduled Tribe certificates, submissions are often incomplete, inaccurate, or outdated.
These documentation shortcomings restrict banks from extending services, resulting in delays in direct benefit transfers, welfare payments, and subsidies meant for the community. Banking correspondents stress that without proper documentation, access to financial inclusion initiatives remains limited, directly affecting the effectiveness of welfare schemes.
The Tripura government has acknowledged these challenges and initiated measures to facilitate documentation and banking outreach. Officials, however, emphasize that active participation from the Bru families is equally vital. Timely submission of correct documents, awareness of eligibility criteria, and engagement in financial literacy programmes are essential to ensure seamless access to banking facilities.
The Bru (Reang) community, displaced from Mizoram following prolonged ethnic unrest, is being permanently resettled in Tripura under a comprehensive agreement signed in 2020. The Union Home Ministry-led initiative aims to provide sustainable rehabilitation through land allocation, housing support, financial assistance, and regular ration supplies. Resettlement colonies have been developed across Gomati, Dhalai, North Tripura, and South Tripura districts.
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In Gomati district, areas such as Paschim Kalajhari Reserve Forest near Tirthamukh have been identified for settlement. Forest clearances have been undertaken alongside a plan to involve Bru families in environmental conservation through Joint Forest Management Committees. This integrated approach seeks to balance rehabilitation with ecological sustainability.
Experts believe that strengthening financial literacy will be a decisive factor in the long-term success of the resettlement programme. Awareness camps, targeted banking drives, and inter-departmental coordination are expected to bridge existing gaps, enabling Bru families to access financial services, government schemes, and credit facilities, thereby promoting economic stability and social inclusion.
