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 the previous regime left behind financial stress and several unresolved issues.
The Chief Minister was speaking after inaugurating the newly constructed building of Madhu Chowdhury Para XII School in Mohanpur. He also virtually inaugurated Tarapur XII School, Gopalnagar XII School and Berimura XII School during the programme held at the Madhu Chowdhury Para XII School campus.
Addressing the gathering, Saha claimed that sectors such as education and health saw little meaningful development before 2018, forcing the current government to “work harder” to bridge the gap.
“The previous government left a heavy financial burden due to multiple pending cases, including the 10,323 issue. Because of that pressure, we now have to put in extra effort. Our aim is development for everyone,” he said.
Highlighting the Centre’s approach to inclusive growth, the Chief Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given special attention to the welfare of tribal communities. He pointed out that Tripura is home to 19 tribal groups out of nearly 700 across the country.
“The unity of people from all sections—castes, tribes, Manipuris and minorities—is our real strength. We must live together and work towards building a new Tripura,” Saha said.
The Chief Minister also noted that between 2019 and 2024, seven eminent personalities from Tripura’s tribal community 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 focus on tribal empowerment.
“A government with nationalist thinking speaks about tribal development. Patriotism matters, and we want everyone to live together in harmony,” he added.
Saha claimed that the state has witnessed visible development in recent years, with inauguration programmes being held almost every day in different parts of Tripura.
“The more development we ensure for tribal and backward communities, the fairer the competition will become. They will shape the future. The Prime Minister has repeatedly said that the future belongs to those who have knowledge,” he said.
According to the Chief Minister, around ₹20.64 crore has been spent on the development of Madhu Chowdhury Para XII School, Tarapur XII School, Gopalnagar XII School and Berimura XII School.
“Our government has prioritised infrastructure development, and adequate budgetary provisions have been made for this,” he said.
Emphasising holistic education, Saha said learning should go beyond textbooks and classrooms.
“Students must also be involved in sports and co-curricular activities. Education has no end—we must learn every day. Many social problems can be addressed through education, which takes us from darkness to light,” he said.
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 other officials were present at the programme.