Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma on Monday evening visited the Eklavya Model Residential School at Rajnagar, Kalabagan in Khowai district, where he spent time interacting directly with students and listening to their experiences related to academics and hostel life. The visit reflected the government’s emphasis on student-centric governance and quality education for tribal communities.
During his interaction, the minister sat with the students and encouraged them to speak freely about their studies, daily routines, and living conditions within the hostel campus. He said the purpose of his visit was not limited to a routine inspection, but to hear firsthand the concerns, aspirations, and feedback of the students. According to him, understanding students’ voices is essential for improving the overall residential education system.
Debbarma highlighted that during such visits, he makes it a point to inspect hostels multiple times to ensure that facilities related to accommodation, food quality, hygiene, and safety are properly maintained. He stressed that these factors play a crucial role in shaping a student’s well-being and academic performance, especially in residential institutions catering to tribal children.
Speaking to the media after the visit, the minister emphasized that education extends beyond textbooks and classrooms. In a residential school environment, he said, the hostel becomes a second home for students. Without a secure, dignified, and caring atmosphere, meaningful learning and holistic development cannot be achieved.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure, improving hostel management, and ensuring responsible supervision in Eklavya Model Residential Schools across Tripura. The minister also assured that any shortcomings brought to light during such visits would be addressed promptly.
Reaffirming his vision for tribal education, Debbarma said the government is determined to protect the interests of tribal students and provide them with opportunities to excel academically and socially. He added that a humane approach, combined with quality facilities and attentive administration, is key to securing a brighter future for students from indigenous communities.
