Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha on Monday said that Tripura has witnessed a significant decline in school dropout rates, attributing the improvement to the state government's sustained efforts to strengthen education and empower girls.

Speaking at a bicycle distribution programme for Class IX students at Shishu Bihar School in Agartala, the Chief Minister emphasized that women's education is essential for the development of society and the nation. He said the government is implementing several initiatives to ensure girls receive quality education and greater opportunities for growth.

Highlighting the importance of women's empowerment, Dr. Saha said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently stressed that national progress is impossible without the development of women, who constitute nearly half of the population.

The Chief Minister informed that around 41,800 bicycles are being distributed to students across the state this year. He said the initiative aims to help students reach school on time, encourage regular attendance, and further motivate girls to continue their studies.

"The programme is designed to strengthen girls' education and will continue in the future under the School Education Department," he said.

Dr. Saha noted that educated women contribute significantly to the development of their families, society, and the nation. He added that women in Tripura are increasingly participating in public life, with more than 50 percent representation in the state's three-tier Panchayati Raj institutions and nearly half of the elected representatives in urban local bodies being women.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to women's empowerment, the Chief Minister said several measures have been introduced to promote girls' education and improve access to quality learning opportunities.

He also urged students to contribute to the vision of a "Viksit Tripura" and remain vigilant against drug abuse. Calling upon teachers to play an active role in this effort, he said any noticeable behavioural changes among students should be addressed promptly.

The programme was attended by Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumdar, Education Department Secretary Milind Ramteke, and other officials.