Congress pitches “empowered ADC” model in Tripura, promises land protection, jobs and healthcare overhaul

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, April 4, 2026

The Indian National Congress has rolled out an ambitious, governance-focused manifesto for the upcoming Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council elections 2026, positioning it as a blueprint for tribal empowerment, administrative autonomy and inclusive development.

Released at Congress Bhavan in Agartala, the document was unveiled in the presence of AICC in-charge Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka and Tripura PCC president Asish Kumar Saha.

Framing the narrative around constitutional safeguards, the party has pushed for expanded powers to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, including full legislative authority, direct central funding and the ability to generate independent revenue. It also renewed its demand for passage of the 125th Constitutional Amendment Bill to strengthen autonomous councils.

A key highlight is the proposal for a dedicated anti-encroachment task force to address land-related concerns in tribal areas, alongside digitisation of land records and community-led forest management. The manifesto also promises minimum support price mechanisms for shifting (jhum) cultivation.

On governance, Congress has pledged mandatory social audits, stricter anti-corruption measures, and compulsory asset disclosure for elected representatives, signalling a transparency-driven approach.

The party’s welfare agenda spans healthcare, education and employment. It promises to upgrade health facilities, deploy mobile medical units and set up de-addiction centres across ADC zones. In education, it has proposed recruitment of Kokborok language teachers, scholarships and skill development centres.

Infrastructure and economic revival form another pillar, with commitments to improve rural connectivity, expand irrigation, support cottage industries and ensure transparent recruitment to fill vacancies. The manifesto also stresses preservation of tribal identity through promotion of Kokborok language and cultural traditions.

Positioning itself as a historical architect of tribal institutions in the state, Congress said its vision is to build a “transparent, accountable and people-centric ADC” that safeguards rights while accelerating development.

There was no immediate response from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.

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