By Firstdespatch Desk Mar 13, 2025
Agartala, Mar 13 (FD) The state government remains committed to protecting women's rights. Ensuring women's self-reliance will not only boost their self-confidence but also help reduce various forms of abuse. Under the strong leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the central government has prioritized the socio-economic development and self-empowerment of women. The state government is actively working in the same direction.
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha made these remarks while inaugurating the state-level International Women's Day celebrations, organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Social Education at Rabindra Bhawan. A documentary showcasing the achievements of the Department of Social Welfare and Social Education in the field of women's and children's welfare was also screened on the occasion.
The Chief Minister stated that the government is always committed to tackling crimes against women. According to the latest NCRB data, Tripura ranks below 8th in the country in terms of physical assault and crimes against women. A toll-free ‘Women Helpline 181’ has been launched in the state to ensure women's safety and provide immediate assistance. Keeping in mind the well-being of mothers and children, a 100-bed mother-and-child care facility has been planned at GBP Hospital.
The Chief Minister further stated that the state government has formed 53,623 self-help groups (SHGs) under the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) to promote women's financial empowerment. In the financial year 2017-18, only ₹32.67 crore was allocated to SHGs in the state, whereas since the 2018-19 financial year, ₹714.16 crore has been disbursed.
Regarding bank loans, ₹4.95 crore was provided before 2017-18, whereas since 2018, ₹1465.8 crore has been allocated. Due to the efforts of the present government, Risa (a traditional cloth made by tribal women in SHGs) and the famous Pera Prasad of Matabari have received the GI tag.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that more than 41.4% of women in the state are engaged in various businesses through startup projects. The state government is committed to providing quality education to students. Admission fees, college development fees, and examination fees for undergraduate and postgraduate students have been waived. Additionally, free bicycles have been distributed to approximately 1,22,500 female students in Class 9. Moreover, female students pursuing higher education in national-level institutions are being provided loans at an interest rate of only 3%.
During the event, Minister for Social Welfare and Social Education, Tinku Roy, highlighted various programs conducted across the state in a fortnight-long celebration of International Women's Day. He also elaborated on multiple government schemes aimed at the welfare of women and children.
At the state-level function, the Department of Social Welfare and Social Education honored 21 women and three self-help groups for their excellence in their respective fields.
The Chief Minister presented certificates, mementos, and cheques to three Anganwadi workers and three Anganwadi helpers. Additionally, three Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) and three ICDS supervisors were awarded. The Chief Minister also handed out prizes and certificates to the winners. Two female police constables and one female Special Police Officer (SPO) were also honored for their contributions.
The event commenced with a welcome address by the Department of Social Welfare and Social Education. Jharna Debbarma, Chairperson of the Tripura Women's Commission, delivered the vote of thanks. Other dignitaries present at the event included Jayanti Debbarma, Chairperson of the Tripura Commission for Protection of Child Rights; Tapan Kumar Das, Director of Social Welfare and Social Education Department; De Bishal Kumar, DM & Collector of West Tripura District; and Dr. Kiran Kumar K., Superintendent of Police of West Tripura District. PRESS RELEASE