Tripura has recorded a notable increase in the number of girls enrolling in higher education (colleges) following the state government's decision to waive off college fees for female students.

Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha shared this update during a state-level felicitation programme held at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan, Agartala on Monday.

Dr. Saha recalled that he had announced the fee waiver on the occasion of Rakhi Purnima after assuming office as the Chief Minister, and the move has since led to a significant rise in the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) among girl students in colleges across the state.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the state’s extensive investment in school infrastructure. In the 2024-25 financial year, Tripura undertook construction of new school buildings worth Rs. 153 crore and spent Rs. 80 crore on renovation works in 346 schools. For the upcoming fiscal year (2025-26), the state has allocated Rs. 264 crore for constructing buildings in 30 schools and Rs. 151 crore for renovating 123 more.

Stressing the need for technology-driven education, Dr. Saha spoke about the importance of drone technology, referring its use in agriculture. To promote its usage, a dedicated Drone Technology Centre has been established at the Tripura Institute of Technology (TIT).

He also urged teachers to embrace technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and play a proactive role in keeping students engaged within classrooms rather than depending on private tuition.

Highlighting academic performance, Dr. Saha proudly mentioned that Tripura's CBSE results were 2 percent higher than neighbouring Assam’s this year.

The event, held to honour schools that achieved 100 percent pass results, was also attended by Special Secretary to Education Raval Hamendra Kumar, Education Director N.C. Sharma, and SCERT Director L. Darlong.