Agartala, February 12, 2026: Social Welfare and Social Education Minister Tinku Roy on Thursday termed child marriage a “social curse” and reaffirmed the state government’s resolve to eliminate the practice entirely from Tripura.
Addressing an awareness programme on Bal Bibaha Mukta Bharat (Child Marriage-Free India) and gender-based violence at a private hotel in Agartala, Roy said the government has set a target of reducing child marriage cases to zero. He emphasized that the state’s overall development hinges on ensuring equal rights and opportunities for both men and women.
Calling for a united social movement against the practice, the Minister urged citizens to actively participate in efforts to eradicate child marriage. He informed that the Social Welfare Department has intensified enforcement of legal provisions, strengthened awareness initiatives, and expanded platforms such as Balika Mancha in schools to educate young girls about their rights. Several areas across the state have also been declared child marriage-free zones as part of the campaign.
Highlighting recent achievements, Roy stated that more than 1,000 awareness programmes were conducted across Tripura over the past year, leading to the prevention of over 700 child marriages. He appealed to community leaders, parents, and local bodies to work closely with the administration to ensure that no girl is married before reaching the legal age of adulthood.
During the programme, financial assistance under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana was also distributed. The scheme provides Rs 50,000 to eligible brides from Antyodaya families prior to marriage. Girls aged 18 years and above can apply through Panchayat, CDPO, or SDM offices by submitting age proof and bank account details. Applications are verified by Panchayat authorities before funds are released.
The event was inaugurated by Minister Roy in the presence of Women’s Commission Chairperson Jharna Debbarma, Child Protection Commission Chairperson Jayanti Debbarma, and Director of Social Welfare and Social Education Tapan Kumar Das, among others.
