Key Meeting Between Tipra Motha Founder and Tripura Chief Minister
In a significant political development, Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma held crucial discussions with Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha at the latter's official residence in Agartala on Friday. The meeting between these prominent leaders of the ruling alliance occurred just three days after Pradyot Kishore announced the formation of a pan-regional forum aimed at uniting all regional parties across Northeast India.
Positive Dialogue for State Benefits
When questioned about the nature of the discussions, Pradyot Kishore described the meeting as a "welcome step" toward progress. "In the meeting, we placed our points and he (CM) also placed his points. We hope that this will move forward and everyone in Tripura will benefit," the Tipra Motha founder stated optimistically.
However, he explicitly clarified that no discussions took place regarding the upcoming village council elections under the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC). Emphasizing the separation between electoral processes and their current dialogue, Pradyot Kishore noted, "We didn't talk about elections. It is a separate process. Positive conversation was held..."
Scholarship Initiative and Civil Service Aspirants
In a parallel development showcasing his commitment to education, the Tipra Motha founder participated in an interactive session with the first batch of civil service aspirants who have secured scholarships instituted in memory of his father, Maharaja Kirit Bikram Kishore Manikya Debbarma. This educational initiative is sponsored by TTAADC in collaboration with Oriental IAS Academy.
Explaining the financial aspects of the program, Pradyot Kishore revealed, "The normal course fee for civil services coaching is Rs 1.20 lakh, and the TTAADC and Oriental Academy subsidise it, making it quite affordable at Rs 60,000." He expressed hope that the success of these aspirants would inspire more students from the region to pursue civil service careers.
The program currently supports 45 students, with plans to expand to 70 next year and potentially 100 in subsequent years. "Both Bengalis and Tiprasas are there among the scholarship recipients," he noted, highlighting the inclusive nature of the initiative. "I thought that if we make people from our state IAS officers, TCS officers, then our state will move forward. Everything is not about politics. Upgrading people is better than politics."
Reflecting on the personal significance of the scholarship program, he added, "My father loved everyone, and he is loved by everyone. I think this is the best way to honour his memory."