Minister Bikash Debbarma visits a remote Janajati hamlet in Tripura, tackling water scarcity and education gaps. Will his visit and pledges ensure Janajati Development ?
Agartala April 14: Tucked away in the tranquil hills of Tripura, a secluded janajati hamlet at 47 Mile, Mungiakami Block reveals a paradox—nature’s splendor set against the stark realities of survival.
A Hidden Gem Marred by Struggle
Nestled at the foothills of Atharomura, the settlement of 47 Mile embodies remote areas’ dual reality—pristine landscapes shadowed by hardship.
In an attempt to get a ground level understanding of prevailing situation and struggle of the locals, Minister Bikash Debbarma, also the MLA of the area, visited this underserved community on Monday (April 14) and held intense interactions with local janajati families.
The visit was far from a routine political stopover, his visit aimed at addressing long-standing challenges, from water scarcity to education access. During his visit, the Minister listened to the grievances as well as underlined the implementation of crucial government projects in the hamlet, sources close to Debbarma said.
Ironically even as the digital age reshaping much of the world, life in this Janajati hamlet mirrors an ancient era, with residents battling basic deprivations.
Broken roads, lack of basic amenities, and limited opportunities and resources define their daily existence.
The Minister recognizing the urgency of their plight, stepped into this isolated enclave under Teliamura Subdivision’s Krishnapur Assembly Constituency, attempting to rewrite their story.
Listening to the grievances of the Community
Debbarma’s visit was marked by genuine engagement. He sat among the villagers, listening to their grievances, stories of resilience and despair.
Janajati men and women spoke of critical issues: the absence of clean drinking water, crumbling infrastructure that isolates them further, missing government documents deepening their exclusion, and financial burdens halting children’s education.
His approach—rooted in empathy rather than bureaucracy—resonated deeply, fostering trust and hope among residents eager for change.
Clean Water: A Dream Nearing Reality
Addressing one of the hamlet’s most pressing needs, Debbarma highlighted progress under the Har Ghar Jal mission.
A modern water treatment plant, now in advanced stages of construction, promises to deliver potable water to every household.
For a community where clean water has long been an elusive luxury, this development marks a transformative milestone.
“Access to safe water is a fundamental right,” Debbarma affirmed and signalled that a comprehensive reforms for the area are on cards.
Education as the Cornerstone of Progress
Beyond immediate needs, Janajati people also expressed concern on prevailing education facility in their village.
Acknowledging people’s concern Debbarma termed education as the key to sustainable development.
“No community can thrive without education and knowledge,” he opined, pledging to bring quality learning opportunities to every child in the hamlet.
By prioritizing schools, resources, and support systems, he highlighted BJP Government’s target to break the cycle of poverty that has gripped the region.
His focus on education aligns with broader goals of empowering Tripura’s janajati youth to contribute to the state’s growth.
People’s reactions
The local janajati people hailed the Minister’s visit who identified self ‘a Servant of Humanity, Not Just a Minister’.
His assurance to stand by the side of the villagers created a positive impact and despite their prolonged struggle for existence, these people are optimistic about their future.
One of the elderly villagers said the Minister was sincere in addressing our administrative issues and daily life struggle.
“The Minister suggested, even solved, some of issues on spot. Obviously, improvement of road connectivity and education infrastructures etc require time. We are pinning our hopes on his assurances with the expectation that he would not fail us”
“The Minister suggested, even solved, some of issues on spot. Obviously, improvement of road connectivity and education infrastructures etc require time. We are pinning our hopes on his assurances with the expectation that he would not fail us”, the bare-chested elderly man commented.
However, a section of villagers appear to be not so optimistic. A group of women said it is easy to assure but fulfilling those is a tough challenge.
“Will Bikash Debbarma be able to deliver and transform his assurances into realities? How long it will take to take effective implementation of plans to achieve inclusive development of Tripura janajati people?”, the womenfolks said.
