Tripura's Rajghat village on path of progress after decline in insurgency

Agartala, Mar 2 (ANI): Following the decline of insurgency in the northeast, developmental activities have gained momentum. Tripura's Rajghat village, is one such example, where combined efforts of the government and local people have helped in the overall development of the region.

Rajghat village situated in West Tripura is home to the Tripuri tribe and other non-tribal people. The now peaceful village was once a hotbed of militancy, which did not allow any development of the area. Today various centrally sponsored schemes are operational in Rajghat village and are helping in the economic growth of the region.

Villagers are getting employment under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, under which they build roads. This has helped villagers improve their socio economic standards.

"We have benefited from the MGNREGA as with extra income we are able to send our children to schools. This has really helped us," said Manju Rani Debbarma, a beneficiary.

"We are digging a pond and constructing a road. The pond will provide water. MGNREA has given us employment and we are earning around Rs 140 a day," said Bishupati Debbarma, another beneficiary.

The decline in insurgency now allows children to attend regular classes. The government is encouraging every child to attend classes by providing facilities like mid-day meal, free books and stationary. Under the 'Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan' Scheme, school infrastructure too has improved.

"We get financial help from the centre and state government schemes. This has helped in improving the quality of education and has brought more and more students to the school. Earlier militancy was the biggest problem in this area but now it is peaceful," said Nabalaxmi Debbarma, school In-charge.

"Every day I come to school. We get free books, copies, pen, pencil and food. Sometimes we get eggs as well. I love coming to school," said Salsang Debbarma, a student.

A large numbers of people here are engaged in farming. It is the main occupation of villagers, who are now shifting from 'Jhum' to regular farming. They are adopting newer farming techniques and using quality seeds for better yields. Several women in the village have taken to piggery and poultry that adds to their family income. They also practice weaving in their courtyards and sell the cloth produced in the market.

"I have a piggery farm and also produce traditional clothes on my loom. It fetches me good return. Along with me many other women have got work under MGNREGA and this helps take care of their families and send children to schools," said Debsona Debbarma, a villager.

The quality of life here has improved with the implementation of various central government schemes. Earlier there was no electricity, but now the government has provided solar panels to the villagers under the Rajiv Gandhi village electrification scheme.

The children can now study, people can watch television and other household work can also be done during the night hours. Rajghat village is a perfect example of how peace and normalcy bring about development. (ANI)