In a spirited Diwali celebration with the second battalion of the Tripura State Rifles (TSR) at Binan Kobra Para in Mandwi, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha commended the TSR’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state. Lauding their dedication and bravery, he noted that the TSR has become a “Pride of Tripura” and earned a solid reputation nationwide, rivaling any other police force in the country.
The Chief Minister highlighted the TSR’s critical role in counter-insurgency operations, which has been instrumental in stabilizing Tripura, especially in areas affected by insurgency. The TSR also supports the state in various capacities, including disaster management, VIP security, and anti-drug operations, along with high-profile deployments in sensitive regions like Parliament Street in Delhi.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by TSR personnel, Dr. Saha announced a comprehensive six-point plan for their welfare and development. Key measures include doubling the ration allowance from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000, increasing the dress allowance from Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000, and constructing gymnasiums in each battalion with a dedicated Rs 5 lakh allocation. Medical officers serving in TSR battalions will now receive an honorarium of Rs 60,000 per month. Additionally, 240 jawans will be promoted on an ad-hoc basis, and Rs 5 crore has been earmarked for infrastructure improvements, including TSR post repairs and barracks maintenance.
A noteworthy aspect of the development drive is the induction of 137 female personnel into the TSR for the first time, underlining the state’s commitment to empowering women and fostering gender equality within its security forces.
Since its inception in 1990, the TSR has lost 16 jawans in the line of duty, underscoring the sacrifices made by the force in ensuring the state’s safety. Dr. Saha expressed gratitude to TSR personnel for their heroism, including their recent efforts during floods that struck Tripura. Concluding his address, he reiterated the government’s dedication to enhancing the welfare of the TSR and acknowledged their unwavering role in creating a sense of security across the state.
