Raksha Khadse Reviews Schemes in Unakoti, Tripura

In a major step toward driving development in India’s North Eastern region, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, concluded a high-level review meeting in Unakoti District, Tripura. This engagement forms a key part of her official visit under the ambitious ‘Poorvottar Sampark Setu’ initiative—an outreach programme guided by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to accelerate the implementation of Central Flagship Schemes, foster stronger Centre-State collaboration, and address region-specific developmental challenges.

Accompanied by Shri Tinku Roy, Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Tripura; Smt. Kriti Devi Debbarman, MP from Tripura East; and various district dignitaries, MoS Khadse’s visit focused on evaluating on-ground progress, identifying gaps, and reinforcing the Centre’s commitment to inclusive development. Unakoti, with its population of over 3.48 lakh (majority rural), was recognized as a strategic district due to both its potential and unique challenges—such as proximity to the international border and eco-tourism viability.

Infrastructure & Connectivity: A Strong Foundation

In the fiscal year 2025-26, 15 road projects spanning 73.894 km were successfully completed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). Unakoti District now features an extensive road network totaling 739.705 km, which includes 91.000 km of National Highways. Key bridges like the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Bridge and the ongoing JALAI Bridge have significantly enhanced connectivity, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding.

Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, 47,737 Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) have been provided, achieving 89.03% coverage across the district. The Nooncherra Water Supply Scheme contributes significantly by delivering 30,000 gallons of water per day. Meanwhile, electrification under SAUBHAGYA has reached full saturation, and the DDUGJY scheme has strengthened rural power infrastructure with numerous transformer installations and the completion of 138 Gobar Gas Plants.

Housing saw a significant leap with 12,006 homes constructed in rural areas and 6,161 in urban under PMAY. Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen boasts 98.09% IHHL coverage and expanded sanitation facilities. Simultaneously, 19+ km of embankment repairs are underway to combat erosion and flood risks.

Livelihood & Economic Growth

Employment generation under MGNREGS resulted in 4.71 lakh person-days, reflecting strong rural engagement, while 93 “Amrit Sarovar” water bodies were successfully rejuvenated to boost water conservation. Under PM-KISAN, financial assistance of ₹70.394 crore was disbursed to 18,790 farmers. Key agricultural and fisheries schemes—PMFBY and PMMSY—extended vital insurance and developmental support to 961 beneficiaries, with total aid of ₹439.57 lakh. Additionally, a state-of-the-art Integrated Aqua Park is currently under development to further strengthen the fisheries sector.

The district is actively promoting entrepreneurship, having disbursed 40 loans under the PMEGP scheme and approved 125 applications through the PM-Vishwakarma initiative. Financial inclusion efforts remain strong, with 102,306 Jan Dhan accounts opened and a healthy Credit Deposit Ratio of 69.44%.

Tribal Development & Women Empowerment

Special attention under PM-JANMAN is benefiting Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups like the Reangs with ST hostels, Anganwadi Centres, and Mobile Medical Units serving over 12,319 individuals. Efforts to curb child marriage prevented 74 cases in the last year.

Women’s empowerment is driven by 11,507 active Self-Help Groups, receiving Rs. 115 Crore in community funds and Rs. 59.7 Crore in bank credit. The “Lakhpati Didi” initiative alone has uplifted 4,575 women through micro-enterprise development.

Health, Education & Youth Empowerment

Healthcare services are expanding, with 81 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, 100% immunization under IMI 5.0, and over 2.5 lakh OPD visits in 2024-25. Free medicines reached 231,512 patients.

Educational reforms include infrastructure upgrades under the PM-SHRI scheme—5 classrooms, a library, and a new school building. In sports, major Khelo India proposals, including an international-grade 8-lane athletic track and synthetic football turf, are under review. A new Youth Hostel is already 20% complete, reflecting growing investment in youth development.

Renewable energy efforts under PM-KUSUM have led to the installation of 275 Solar Agriculture Pumps and 1,443 Solar Street Lights. LPG penetration through PM Ujjwala Yojana has achieved an impressive 97.42% coverage.

Challenges and Strategic Recommendations

While praising the administration’s achievements, MoS Khadse underscored key areas needing intensified focus:

• Border Security & Infrastructure: Emphasis on restoring fencing and border road connectivity post-flood damage.
• Eco-tourism Development: Capitalizing on Unakoti’s cultural and natural assets to boost tourism.
• Agricultural Innovation: Introducing climate-resilient crops and modern farming practices to bridge production gaps.
• Skill Development & Employment: Tapping into local potential in bamboo, rubber, and crafts to reduce youth migration.
• Educational Safety: Enhancing school infrastructure with boundary walls and adequate sanitation.
• Water Safety: Addressing high iron content and erosion with additional manpower and permanent water schemes.
• Road Upgradation: Request for a comprehensive DPR to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to address non-concrete road concerns.
• Digital Access: Promoting Digital Literacy, CSC access, and last-mile delivery of digital services.

A Vision for an ‘Inspirational’ District

Expressing her deep appreciation, MoS Raksha Khadse remarked, “The dedication shown by the Unakoti District Administration and the visible transformation brought about by Central Flagship Schemes are truly commendable.” She reiterated the Central Government’s strong resolve to elevate Unakoti from an aspirational to an inspirational district, aligning with the broader goal of building a ‘Viksit Bharat’.

A detailed tour report will be uploaded to the ‘Poorvottar Sampark Setu’ portal, ensuring transparent tracking, effective monitoring, and continued Centre-State synergy in North East India’s development journey.