Agartala, Jan 18: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on January 17 said the present state government is placing strong emphasis on improving school infrastructure across Tripura, while alleging that years of neglect and financial strain inherited from the previous regime have slowed development. He made the remarks while inaugurating the newly constructed building of Madhu Chowdhury Para XII School in Mohanpur and virtually inaugurating Tarapur XII School, Gopalnagar XII School and Berimura XII School at a programme held on the Madhu Chowdhury Para XII School campus.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister claimed that key sectors such as education and health saw little progress before 2018, leaving the current administration with added responsibilities. He alleged that unresolved issues and financial pressures, including cases related to the 10,323 teachers, had placed a heavy burden on the state. Despite these challenges, Saha said his government is working with the objective of inclusive development and ensuring benefits reach all sections of society.
Highlighting the Centre’s approach to social equity, the Chief Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accorded special importance to the welfare of tribal communities. He noted that India is home to around 700 tribal groups, including 19 in Tripura, and stressed that unity among people of all communities, castes, tribes and minorities remains the state’s greatest strength. He called for collective efforts to build a “new Tripura” through harmony and cooperation.
Saha also pointed to national recognition for Tripura’s tribal community, stating that between 2019 and 2024, seven eminent tribal personalities from the state have been honoured with the Padma Shri. Referring to the appointment of Draupadi Murmu as President of India, he said it reflected the Centre’s commitment to tribal empowerment and inclusive governance rooted in nationalist thinking.
Stating that Tripura has witnessed visible progress in recent years, the Chief Minister said developmental inaugurations are now taking place almost daily across the state. He added that ensuring development for tribal and backward communities would create a level playing field and enable them to become future leaders. Emphasising the importance of knowledge, he quoted the Prime Minister’s view that the future belongs to those who are well-educated.
The Chief Minister informed that approximately Rs 20.64 crore has been spent on infrastructure development at Madhu Chowdhury Para XII School, Tarapur XII School, Gopalnagar XII School and Berimura XII School. He said the state budget has made adequate provisions for infrastructure, reflecting the government’s priority in strengthening educational institutions.
Underscoring the importance of holistic education, Saha said learning should go beyond textbooks and include sports and extracurricular activities. He described education as a lifelong process that plays a crucial role in addressing social issues and guiding society from ignorance towards progress.
The event was attended by Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath, Lefunga BAC Chairman Ranbir Debbarma, Vice Chairman Budhu Debbarma, Hejamara BAC Vice Chairman Nihar Ranjan Debbarma, Education Director NC Sharma and several other dignitaries.
