Mohanpur : Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on January 17 said the present state government is working with a strong focus on strengthening school infrastructure across Tripura, while alleging that the previous dispensation had left behind financial burdens and unresolved issues.

The Chief Minister was speaking after inaugurating the newly constructed building of Madhu Chowdhury Para XII School in Mohanpur and virtually inaugurating Tarapur XII School, Gopalnagar XII School and Berimura XII School. The main inauguration programme was held at the premises of Madhu Chowdhury Para XII School.

Addressing the gathering, Saha said that prior to 2018, there was little visible development in key sectors such as education and health, which, he said, has necessitated greater efforts by the present government. “Because of this, we have to work harder. The previous government left a heavy financial burden and pressure due to various cases, including the 10,323 issue. Our government is trying to develop everyone,” he said.

Highlighting the Centre’s emphasis on inclusive development, the Chief Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accorded special importance to the welfare of tribal communities. He noted that while there are around 700 tribal groups across the country, 19 are found in Tripura.

“The unity of people from all sections, castes, tribes, Manipuris and minorities is our strength. We must live together and build a new Tripura,” Saha said.

He also pointed out that between 2019 and 2024, seven eminent personalities from Tripura’s tribal community were conferred with the Padma Shri, and cited the appointment of Draupadi Murmu as President of India as a reflection of the Centre’s focus on tribal empowerment.

“A government with nationalist thinking speaks about tribal development. Patriotism is important, and we want everyone to live together,” the Chief Minister said.

Saha said the state has witnessed accelerated development in recent years, with inauguration of projects taking place almost daily in different regions. He added that increased development for tribal and backward communities would lead to fairer competition and empower them to shape the future.

“The Prime Minister has repeatedly said that the future belongs to those who possess knowledge,” he said.

The Chief Minister said a total of around Rs 20.64 crore has been spent on infrastructure development at Madhu Chowdhury Para XII School, Tarapur XII School, Gopalnagar XII School and Berimura XII School. He added that the current government has prioritised infrastructure development and ensured adequate budgetary allocations for the sector.

Emphasising the need for holistic education, Saha said learning should extend beyond textbooks. “Students should be involved in sports and other activities. Education has no end; we must learn every day. 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 dignitaries were present at the event.

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