Tripura's Higher Education participation to rise from 22% to 75% by 2030, says Minister Kishor Barman

Higher Education Minister Kishore Barman has set a bold target of raising the state’s higher education participation rate from the current 22 percent to 75 percent by 2030, declaring that this transformation is essential to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Developed India.”

Speaking at a review meeting — styled as (Ucchasiksha Sanglap) Higher Education Dialogue — held at the administrative building of Maharaja Bir Bikram University on Thursday, Barman placed students at the centre of his roadmap. 

He said, “Our mission is clear. By 2030, Tripura must achieve 75 percent enrolment in higher education. To reach this milestone, we need modern infrastructure, a healthy academic environment, and strong collaboration between teachers, students and officials. Only then can we ensure that every young person has the opportunity to contribute to the nation’s growth.”

The Minister emphasised that the development of institutions cannot be achieved by government efforts alone. “It requires active and equal participation from ministers, officials, teachers and students. Everyone must play a role in strengthening higher education,” he noted.

The meeting focused on improving infrastructure in colleges, addressing existing problems, and building stronger relationships between students, faculty and administrators. Barman highlighted four key institutions within a single large area— MBB University, MBB College, BBMC College and Law College — which he said would be developed into model institutions by 2030.

Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Dipak Majumder and senior officials of the Higher Education Department were also present at the meeting. 

The Minister stressed that students who regularly attend classes and use facilities such as libraries, canteens and laboratories must be given priority in decision-making. “Students’ voices should be central to every policy decision,” he said.

Barman further announced that similar review meetings will be held in every district to address local challenges. He urged colleges to resolve minor issues at the local level without unnecessary delays, noting that not every problem requires files to be sent to the ministry.

On institutional expansion, the Minister confirmed that Tripura’s Technical University and Women’s University — already approved by the Assembly and Governor — will begin academic sessions soon through student admissions. He clarified that decisions regarding the proposed Medical University would be taken by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha.

The Minister concluded by reiterating that the 2030 target is not just about numbers but about creating a vibrant, inclusive and modern higher education ecosystem. “Our collective responsibility is to build institutions that inspire confidence, nurture talent and prepare our youth to lead India into the future,” he said.