Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to inclusive development across all sections of society, Chief Minister Professor (Dr.) Manik Saha on Thursday inaugurated the Merit Award Presentation Ceremony organized by the Minority Welfare Department at Pragna Bhavan. The event celebrated academic excellence among minority students and highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at their overall upliftment.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the present government is working relentlessly for the welfare and development of people irrespective of caste, creed or religion, with special emphasis on minority communities. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has placed strong focus on education, healthcare and the welfare of women and children from minority groups under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram.
Dr. Saha underlined the transformative power of education, stating, “Without the light of education, ignorance cannot be dispelled.” He urged minority students to adopt technical and skill-based education alongside traditional learning to enhance their future prospects. The Chief Minister also informed that the state government has forwarded five major projects to the Centre for approval to further strengthen minority welfare initiatives.
Highlighting key measures, Dr. Saha spoke about efforts to restore Wakf Board properties, ensure transparency in scholarship distribution, upgrade madrasa infrastructure and improve living conditions in minority-dominated areas. He also stressed the importance of maintaining communal harmony, urging citizens not to fall prey to provocations and reiterating that the rule of law prevails in the state.
Minority Welfare Minister Sukla Charan Noatia announced plans to develop Minority Model Villages and revealed that ₹9.22 crore has been allocated for scholarships. MLA Tofazzal Hossain encouraged minority students to pursue higher education and contribute positively to the state’s progress.
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister’s Minority Awards, Begum Rokeya Gold Medal Awards and Maulana Abul Kalam Merit Awards were presented, along with financial assistance to meritorious students. Two newly constructed 100-bed hostels, built at a cost of ₹4.28 crore, were also virtually inaugurated.
The Chief Minister released a departmental booklet, handed over loan cheques and distributed sports equipment to schools. The event was attended by senior officials and community leaders, marking a significant step towards empowering minority communities in Tripura.
