Tripura CM Declares ₹5,000 Monthly Honorarium for Tribal Chiefs

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha recently announced a substantial increase in the monthly honorarium for the state’s Pradhan Samajpatis—traditional tribal heads—raising it from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000. This move comes as part of the state government's broader effort to recognize and empower grassroots tribal leadership and preserve the cultural fabric of the state's indigenous communities.

Tripura is home to 19 recognized tribal communities, each traditionally headed by a Pradhan Samajpati. In total, there are 20 Pradhan Samajpatis, with the Jamatia tribe having two such leaders. These tribal heads play a vital role in maintaining social harmony, safeguarding customs, and upholding traditional systems within their respective communities.

Announcing the decision via a Facebook post on Thursday, CM Saha explained that the state cabinet had approved key amendments to the existing policy governing the honorarium of Pradhan Samajpatis. The primary amendment is the increase in the monthly payment, which aims to offer more respect and financial support to these custodians of tribal values and traditions.

Additionally, the cabinet has removed a key restriction that earlier prevented government employees and pensioners from being eligible for the honorarium. Now, any Pradhan Samajpati who is either elected or selected through legitimate means will be entitled to receive the benefit, regardless of their employment or retirement status. This move is intended to ensure inclusivity and fairness in the distribution of benefits.

Saha emphasized that the decision was taken in recognition of the crucial role these leaders play in preserving Tripura's rich tribal heritage. The Pradhan Samajpatis act as cultural ambassadors and contribute to the transmission of traditional knowledge and practices, while also serving as grassroots leaders in community decision-making processes.

The timing of this announcement is also politically significant, as it precedes the upcoming elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), which are scheduled to take place early next year. The TTAADC governs the tribal regions of Tripura and plays a central role in the administration and development of these areas. By enhancing the honorarium and extending eligibility, the government appears to be reinforcing its commitment to tribal welfare ahead of the polls.

On July 17, CM Saha held a meeting with leaders of the BJP’s Janajati Morcha to review the situation in tribal-dominated areas of the state. He also discussed development strategies and addressed concerns from tribal communities. Further engagement took place on Wednesday, when Pradhan Samajpatis from the Tripura, Reang, Mog, and Murasing communities met the chief minister at his official residence to share their views and express appreciation for the policy changes.

In summary, this decision by the Tripura government marks a significant step toward strengthening tribal institutions and acknowledging the socio-cultural contributions of Pradhan Samajpatis. It also reflects the administration’s strategy to improve tribal engagement and support ahead of crucial elections in the state’s autonomous tribal council.