Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on January 15 said that his government has placed tribal welfare and development at the very centre of its policies, with a large share of the state budget being spent on programmes meant for indigenous communities. Speaking at a programme organised by the Darlong community in Kumarghat, under Unakoti district, the Chief Minister said nearly 40 per cent of Tripura’s total budget is set aside exclusively for tribal welfare. He said this clearly shows the government’s strong commitment to inclusive growth and equal development for all sections of society.
Saha shared details of the state’s finances, stating that the revised estimated budget for the 2024–25 financial year stands at Rs 30,296 crore. After fixed expenditures, Rs 17,014 crore remains, of which about 39 per cent has been allocated for the development of tribal communities. For the 2025–26 financial year, he said Rs 7,149 crore — close to 40 per cent of the total budget — has been earmarked for tribal-focused schemes. The Chief Minister noted that Tripura has a population of around 40 lakh, with nearly 25 lakh people belonging to tribal and sub-tribal communities. He said special attention has been given to strengthening the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, with increased budgetary support and development projects aimed at improving living standards in tribal areas.
Highlighting assistance from the Centre, Saha said the World Bank has extended Rs 1,400 crore for projects focused on infrastructure development and livelihood creation in tribal regions. He also spoke about the importance of education and said the setting up of Eklavya Model Residential Schools is helping tribal students access quality schooling.
