By Firstdespatch Desk Sep 16, 2025
Agartala, Sept 16 (FD) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Tuesday reiterated his government’s commitment to the holistic development of the state’s tribal communities, announcing a series of measures aimed at improving their socio-economic conditions.
Addressing the state-level orientation programme of the Aadi Karmayogi Abhiyan—billed as the world’s largest grassroots tribal leadership programme—Saha said the initiative seeks to mobilise 20 lakh “change leaders” across one lakh villages.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the World Bank-funded Tripura Rural Economic Growth and Service Delivery Project (TRESP), with an outlay of Rs 1,400 crore, is advancing steadily. In addition, the state has sanctioned Rs 81.69 crore for five years under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan to strengthen welfare schemes for tribal communities.
Placing special emphasis on education, Saha informed that six Eklavya Model Residential Schools are already operational in Tripura, while another six will be inaugurated soon. “The government believes that if proper education is ensured for tribal children, the chance to misguide them will be reduced,” he said. He further added that the daily stipend for tribal students has been doubled from Rs 40 to Rs 80, benefiting 34,018 students currently residing in 404 hostels across the state.
The Chief Minister also announced plans to expand honorarium benefits for community leaders. “When we came to power, only a few community headmen used to receive Rs 2,000 per month. We have hiked it to Rs 5,000 per month. Now, we are planning to extend the benefit to all heads of sub tribes,” he said.
Tripura, home to 19 tribes and 40 sub tribes, will continue to witness inclusive development efforts, Saha asserted, as the government works towards uplifting all sections of the indigenous population. FD JK