Tripura's Tribal Transformation: A Progressive Path Ahead

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha reaffirmed his government's commitment to the comprehensive development of the state's tribal communities on Tuesday. Speaking at the state-level orientation for the Aadi Karmayogi Abhiyan, Saha emphasized efforts to elevate the socio-economic status of tribal people, highlighting the world's largest grassroots tribal leadership initiative aimed at organizing 20 lakh 'change leaders' across 1 lakh villages.

Saha detailed several ongoing projects, including the Rs 1,400-crore Tripura Rural Economic Growth and Service Delivery Project (TRESP), funded by the World Bank, which is showing steady progress. Additionally, the state has sanctioned Rs 81.69 crore over five years under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, specifically targeting tribal welfare.

Education is an essential focus area, with six Eklavya Model Residential Schools operating and six more planned. The government has doubled the tribal student stipend from Rs 40 to Rs 80, directly impacting the 34,018 students in 404 hostels. There are also plans to expand honorariums for tribal community leaders, underscoring the administration's dedication to empowering tribal populations.

(With inputs from agencies.)