The Government of Tripura has intensified efforts to enhance the infrastructure of higher education institutions, ensuring a robust and advanced academic environment. Alongside infrastructural development, the government remains committed to providing quality education to students, fostering a culture of learning and academic excellence, said Chief Minister Professor Dr Manik Saha.
He added, since 2018, initiatives such as Super 30, Lakshya, and CM Saath have played a pivotal role in inspiring students toward higher education, significantly contributing to the sector’s growth. The government’s progressive policies, including increased enrollment of female students in government degree colleges and various fee waivers, have resulted in a notable rise in the Gross Enrollment Ratio.
As part of its ongoing commitment to education and women’s empowerment, Dr. Manik Saha inaugurated the Scooty Distribution Ceremony for the 2023-24 academic year under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Atmanirbhar Yojana at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan in Agartala on Friday.
The event, organized by the Higher Education Department, saw the distribution of scooters to 140 meritorious female students. The Chief Minister highlighted that this initiative is a significant step toward women’s empowerment and will further encourage female students to pursue higher education.
Under this scheme, each eligible female student will receive a scooty, inclusive of insurance and registration costs. To qualify, a student must be enrolled in the first semester of an undergraduate course at a government (general) degree college under the Tripura government’s Higher Education Department.
Moreover, the student must have secured a minimum of 80 percent marks in the Higher Secondary Examination conducted by TBSE or CBSE. Eligibility criteria also include an annual family income of no more than ₹8 lakh and a permanent residency certificate. The Chief Minister urged the recipients to ride cautiously and prioritize safety while using their new vehicles.
During the ceremony, Dr. Saha announced the launch of the Chief Minister’s Special Scholarship to support visually impaired and differently-abled students in higher education. Further strengthening the state’s academic infrastructure, the government is working to provide Wi-Fi services in all degree and polytechnic colleges.
The Chief Minister underscored several key initiatives aimed at transforming Tripura into an education hub among the northeastern states. These include the establishment of Dhamma Dipa International Buddhist University, Techno India University, Aryabhatta International University, and the upcoming Mata Tripura Sundari Open University in Udaipur.
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Additionally, Tripura has implemented the New National Education Policy in its colleges from the 2023-24 academic year. Under the ‘Lakshya’ scheme, financial assistance has already been provided to 10 students. Also, IIIT in Agartala, the National Forensic Science University, and a drone center at TIT have been set up.
To enhance students’ communication skills, an English Communication Skills course has been introduced at Women’s Polytechnic, Khumulwng’s TTADC Polytechnic, and Dhalai District Polytechnic. Dr. Saha noted that 22 out of 25 general degree colleges in the state have received accreditation from NAAC, a testament to the state’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards. Notably, Sachin Debbarman Memorial Government Music College has also been accredited by NAAC.
Furthering its commitment to female students’ welfare, the government has initiated the construction of a 50-bed hostel for female students at the government college in Gandacherra. The Chief Minister elaborated on various steps taken to promote women’s empowerment, socio-economic upliftment, and safety, reflecting the government’s dedication to holistic development.
The event also featured speeches from Special Secretary of the Education Department, Ravel Hemendra Kumar, and Director of the Higher Education Department, Animesh Debbarma.
As part of the ceremony, the Chief Minister personally handed over scooty keys and helmets—provided by the Transport Department—to female students from various colleges across the state. A documentary showcasing the objectives and impact of the Mukhyamantri Kanya Atmanirbhar Yojana was screened at the event.
Besides, Dr. Saha, along with distinguished guests, unveiled a booklet highlighting the achievements of the Higher Education Department, reinforcing the government’s commitment to advancing education and empowerment in Tripura.
