A permanent vending zone, clearer scholarship rules and affordable accommodation for poor visitors emerged as key demands raised by the Twipra Youth Federation (TYF) during a meeting with the Tribal Welfare Department in Agartala. The delegation also sought action over the recent eviction of tribal vegetable vendors in Nandanagar, near Agartala.
Key takeaways
- TYF seeks a permanent vending zone for tribal vegetable sellers affected by eviction drives in Nandanagar and other areas.
- Tribal students may remain eligible for scholarships even if they study outside the 31 listed B.Ed and D.El.Ed colleges, provided institutions meet required standards.
- The organisation wants cheaper rest houses and improved accommodation and food facilities for poor visitors and patients in Agartala.
The Central Committee of the Twipra Youth Federation (TYF), along with members of the TSU Central Committee, submitted a deputation to the Director of the Tribal Welfare Department of Govt of Tripura today.
The seven-member delegation discussed several issues affecting tribal communities, with the eviction of tribal vegetable vendors in Nandanagar receiving primary attention.
TYF Central Committee president Kuchirai Debbarma, former ADC Executive Member Sandhyarani Chakma and other representatives joined the delegation.
TYF objects to Nandanagar eviction drive
The delegation raised strong objections to the treatment of tribal women and vegetable vendors during an Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) task force drive in Nandanagar on August 11.
According to TYF, several tribal women had travelled from distant areas to sell vegetables near a private school in Nandanagar. The organisation alleged that the vendors faced harsh and inhuman treatment during the eviction drive.
TYF said the issue was not limited to Nandanagar. Similar eviction drives have reportedly taken place at vegetable markets in Abhaynagar, Lake Chomani and Kaipeng, as well as other parts of the state.
The organisation said authorities should not remove vendors without prior information or a permanent alternative.
Demand for permanent vending facilities
TYF called for a long-term solution for the affected vendors. It proposed designated market stalls or a permanent vending area where tribal women can sell vegetables without repeated eviction threats.
The delegation requested the Tribal Welfare Department to coordinate with the AMC on the issue.
According to TYF, the Director assured the delegation that the department could provide financial assistance if the AMC makes land available.
The Director reportedly said the Tribal Welfare Department would support construction of the required facilities after the AMC identifies and provides suitable space.
Scholarship concerns over B.Ed and D.El.Ed colleges
The delegation also raised concerns about scholarship eligibility for tribal students studying B.Ed and D.El.Ed courses.
TYF said the Tribal Welfare Department has prepared a list of around 31 colleges for the 2026-27 academic session. Many ST students from Tripura study in educational institutions in West Bengal, Odisha and other states.
The delegation said students were concerned about whether they would receive scholarships if they enrolled in an NCTE-recognised college outside the listed institutions.
The Director reportedly clarified that students could still qualify for scholarships if their institutions meet the required quality and infrastructure standards.
TYF, however, urged the department to issue clear guidelines. It said eligible students should not face difficulties while claiming scholarships because their colleges do not appear on the initial list.
TYF seeks better rest houses and lower rent
The delegation also discussed facilities at rest houses and guest houses managed through the Tribal Welfare Department.
It sought better accommodation and food services at facilities including the Kumari Moudauti Rupashree Rest House in Agartala and the Nandaram Deb Smriti Rest House near GBP Hospital.
TYF also requested a reduction in daily rental charges.
The organisation said poor patients, their relatives and tribal vegetable vendors often travel long distances to Agartala. Some need accommodation for one or two days. Higher rent can therefore create an additional financial burden.
The delegation urged the department to consider affordable rates for economically weaker visitors.
