A few Free Duckling Distribution from Lok Bhavan Sparks Debate Amid Ongoing Political Tensions in Tripura

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, April 22, 2026

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Raj Bhavan of Tripura, now officially referred to as Lok Bhavan, has begun distributing ducklings free of cost to Self-Help Groups (SHGs), drawing both appreciation and criticism across the state.

The programme was formally launched today under the initiative of Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu at Lok Bhavan in Agartala. During the event, ducklings produced through a modern hatching machine were handed over to five Self-Help Groups.

All five beneficiary groups are operated under the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission, which funded the initiative. The programme aims to promote duck farming as a sustainable livelihood model, particularly among rural women.

The event was attended by TRLM Chief Executive Officer Tarit Kranti Chakma, IAS, West Tripura District Magistrate Dr Vishal Kumar, IAS and other senior officials.

Officials described the initiative as a pioneering step, marking the first time that a government supported livelihood scheme funded by TRLM has been distributed directly from Lok Bhavan to grassroots beneficiaries.

However, the programme has also triggered widespread discussion and criticism in the political backdrop of recent political developments in the state. Following the declaration of ADC election results, several incidents of violence have been reported, with allegations that many BJP workers were attacked and forced to flee their homes in different parts of Tripura.

During this period, Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha, Chief Secretary J K Sinha, IAS and Director General of Police Anurag Dhankar, IPS have been visiting districts to restore peace and normalcy.

Against this backdrop, questions are being raised in political and public circles over the timing and intent of organizing such an event at the Raj Bhavan. Critics argue that when many affected families are yet to return home, priority should be given to restoring law and order.

Further adding to the debate, the Governor recently hosted Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, founder of Tipra Motha, at Lok Bhavan for a dinner meeting. This has intensified political reactions, especially at a time when tensions remain high in several parts of the state.

Observers have noted that while the Governor has often addressed the media on various issues, there has been no direct public appeal from Raj Bhavan urging restraint or calling for an end to the recent violence.

On the other hand, some view the duckling distribution initiative as a welfare-oriented step aimed at economic empowerment and rural development, though questions persist over whether such programmes should be prioritized during periods of unrest.

As Tripura navigates a sensitive phase, the developments at Lok Bhavan have added a new dimension to the ongoing political discourse, raising broader questions about governance priorities, public perception, and the role of constitutional authorities in times of crisis.

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