Tribal Welfare Minister Bikas Debbarma today paid a surprise visit to Sister Nivedita Hostel in Agartala, where a large number of students from tribal, minority and OBC communities reside while pursuing higher education in various colleges and universities of the capital.

The minister’s visit followed reports circulating on social media about the hostel’s infrastructural deficiencies and the challenges faced by its students. 

During his interaction, Debbarma listened to the grievances of the students, who highlighted long-standing problems ranging from daily hardships to major infrastructural gaps.

“This hostel is not just a place for the students to stay, but an important foundation for their future. After pursuing higher education from here, these students will have to shoulder various responsibilities of the society in the future. Therefore, the government is giving utmost importance to ensuring that they do not face any problems,” Debbarma said.

He assured the students that the state government will initiate immediate discussions with the concerned departments to address their issues without delay. 

“The aim is to ensure that the students continue their studies in a safe, healthy and conducive environment,” he added.

The minister’s unexpected visit has been welcomed by both students and their guardians, who termed it a positive step. They expressed hope that timely measures will now be taken to transform Sister Nivedita Hostel into a model institution that truly supports the academic and personal growth of its residents.