Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram reviewed Central schemes in Tripura’s Unakoti, emphasising tribal development, EMRS expansion, and infrastructure progress under the ‘Purvottar Sampark Setu’ initiative, alongside key field visits, heritage inspections, and education-focused interventions.
Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram conducted a comprehensive review of ongoing Central Government schemes in Tripura’s Unakoti district on Wednesday as part of the ‘Purvottar Sampark Setu’ initiative, aimed at accelerating development in India’s northeastern region. His visit underscored the government’s renewed focus on strengthening welfare delivery systems, expanding educational opportunities, and expediting infrastructure projects in tribal-dominated areas.
The high-level review meeting, held at the Circuit House in Unakoti, was attended by Tripura ministers Tinku Roy, Bikash Debbarma, and Sudhangshu Das, along with MLA Bhagaban Das and senior administrative officials. During the session, authorities presented detailed progress reports on key schemes related to education, healthcare, drinking water, road connectivity, housing, and livelihood creation.
Minister Oram, in his address, highlighted the Centre’s priority on empowering tribal communities through holistic development. “The development of Tripura’s tribal regions is our foremost priority. Regional reviews like this help us understand the on-ground impact of central schemes. We are working tirelessly to ensure that initiatives of both the Centre and the State reach the people effectively. Joint efforts will provide a stronger foundation for districts like Unakoti,” he said.
Officials clarified that the meeting was not a routine exchange of documents but an in-depth review aimed at recalibrating strategies for sustainable development. Field-level officers pointed out achievements in several sectors, while also identifying challenges and delays in specific pockets that require targeted intervention. By the end of the session, it was collectively decided to establish special monitoring cells to fast-track project implementation at the local level. Initial discussions also took place regarding new proposals in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
After the meeting, Minister Oram posted on social media praising the state’s progress. He wrote, “The Tripura Government is doing commendable work under Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, ensuring more effective implementation of the Central Government’s schemes and delivering their benefits directly to citizens.”
Focus on Expansion of Eklavya Model Residential Schools
In another major announcement during his visit, the Union Minister declared that 728 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) will be operational across India by 2026 to enhance quality education for tribal children. At present, 440 EMRS are functioning, providing residential education aimed at bridging the educational gap among tribal communities.
Minister Oram made these remarks while attending a programme at the EMRS in Kumarghat, a key tribal pocket under Unakoti district. He encouraged students to take part in sports and physical exercises to ensure overall development.
Under the revised EMRS scheme, funds are released by the Tribal Affairs Ministry to the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), the autonomous body responsible for implementing and managing the schools. A senior official informed that the Centre has sanctioned 145 EMRS across eight northeastern states—including 21 in Tripura. However, only 28 schools are currently functional, highlighting the need for accelerated infrastructure development.
As part of Constitution Day observance, Minister Oram also read the Preamble of the Constitution with students and staff of the school. He inspected classrooms, laboratories, and computer rooms, engaging directly with students and teachers to understand academic progress and infrastructural needs.
Field Visits to MGNREGA Projects and Heritage Sites
Earlier in the day, the Union Minister visited a canal constructed under the MGNREGA scheme at Kaulikura village in Gournagar block. Officials briefed him about the employment generated under MGNREGA and the impact of the project on irrigation and agriculture.
He later visited the iconic archaeological heritage site of Unakoti, a renowned Shaiva pilgrimage destination known for its ancient rock carvings. Sharing his experience on social media, Minister Oram wrote: “At Kailashahar, Unakoti, where faith meets history. The serenity of the hills, the artistry of the rock engravings, and the spiritual aura inspire devotion. Prayed for harmony, prosperity, and collective growth.”
Minister Oram’s visit began on Tuesday at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala, where he was received by Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma and senior officials. His multi-day tour includes assessment of tribal development schemes, field inspections, and interaction with communities across the state.
| Also Read: Tripura Govt to complete 6 New EMRS by March 2026: CM Dr. Saha |
Tripura ministers Tinku Roy, Bikash Debbarma, and MLA Bhagaban Chandra Das accompanied the Union Minister during various parts of the visit, reaffirming the commitment of the state government to collaborative development efforts.
