Agartala, Aug 30, 2023, TRIPURATIMES Desk
Agartala Aug 30: With reduction in prices of LPG gas cylinders by Rs 200 for all connection holders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already given an exceptional gift to the sisters and mothers of the nation on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, said Tripura chief minister Dr Manik Saha.
Wednesday, women from different communities irrespective of caste, creed and religion gathered together and tied ‘Rakhi’ to the chief minister Dr Manik Saha at his residence in the state capital.
Speaking to the media persons on the occasion, Dr Saha pointed out the importance of the day. He said, it not only signifies the bond between brother and sister but also comes with a responsibility of protection and affection.
“Tuesday, in a significant decision, the Union Cabinet approved reduction in prices of LPG gas cylinders by Rs 200 for all the connection holders. In addition to this, the Cabinet also cleared the proposal to give 75 lakh new LPG connections under the Ujjwala scheme that will increase the number of beneficiaries to more than 10 crores across the country. This is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s gift on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan to all the women of the nation”, he said.
The chief minister also thanked the Prime Minister on the decision adding that women who are associated with household chores are the ones who will be benefited the most.
In his message to the women of the state on the occasion, the chief minister said, “It was the last year when I made a host of promises to the women of the state on the same occasion. And I am happy to say that I could stand up to the promises”.
“Under the able leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state government has been working towards women empowerment since its inception. 33 percent seats have been reserved for women in case of government jobs. 50 percent reservation has been made for women in allotment of government market stalls and shopping complexes”, he said.
Dr Saha further said that girls are getting free education in general degree colleges across the state. Girl students of Class IX are given free bicycles.
“So far, 1,000,000 bicycles have been distributed to girl students. Besides, the state government has also taken initiative to provide free scooty to meritorious girls on passing Madhyamik and Higher Secondary examinations”, he added.
With revolving funds and support of the state government, a large number of women are entrepreneurs. Presently, there are more than 50,000 self help groups (SHGs) and most of them are run by women.
The Tripura chief minister further said that along with improving the socio-economic condition of the women, the state government has also laid equal focus towards their safety.
“CCTV cameras installed at all corners of the city have helped women and girls to move freely without any fear. Besides, with the improved law and order situation, immediate action is taken in case of any crime related to women”, he said.