AGARTALA: In view of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in 2024, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Tripura seems to be going all out to woo the tribal voters in the state.
In a bold initiative to enhance the socio-economic circumstances of the tribal population within the state, the cabinet approved an allocation of Rs 30 crore for the betterment of the tribals in the state.
Confirming this, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, on Thursday, announced that the state cabinet has approved of the Mukhyamantri Tribal Development Mission (MTDM), a pledge rooted in the BJP’s election manifesto and budgetary announcements.
“The mission received the cabinet’s nod on Wednesday, outlining tribal development plans for the current fiscal year,” he told the press. He also assured that the initial allocation of Rs 30 crore would likely see upward revisions in subsequent years.
One of the mission’s immediate tasks, as mentioned by the minister, is the initiation of a registration process by the Tribal Welfare Department, pinpointing families eligible to benefit from the scheme.
“The mission underscores our unwavering commitment to holistic development for our indigenous populace,” stated Chowdhury.
Funds will be allocated toward constructing vital infrastructure like roads, improving drinking water access, and introducing skill development programs. The objective? Equip the youth with requisite skills, preparing them for the job market, he added.
Previously, the BJP-IPFT coalition had mooted expanding the seats in Tripura’s Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council from 30 to 50. This was aimed at ensuring all tribal communities gain representation. However, this proposal is still under deliberation with the Centre.
Additionally, the minister divulged several other cabinet decisions. These encompassed the appointment of 125 physical education teachers and school librarians, predominantly for the state’s recently converted Vidyajyoti schools, which currently number 125 and adhere to the CBSE curriculum.
A green light has also been given to fill 50 supervisor positions in the Tribal and SC welfare departments. Furthermore, recruitment processes will commence for 75 assistant professors designated for state degree colleges and 14 faculty positions at Ujjayanta University.
