BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 26th February 2026: Emphasizing the need for social awareness and responsibility to prevent child marriage, Tinku Roy, Minister of Social Welfare and Social Education, inaugurated a statewide street play campaign against child marriage today at Pratapgarh Rishi Colony. He called upon all citizens to take a pledge to build a child marriage-free state.
The campaign, organized by the Tripura State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (TSCPCR), will run from tomorrow until March 7, covering 58 blocks across the state and multiple locations in Agartala city. The initiative aims to raise awareness among students, youth, and citizens from all walks of life about the legal and social consequences of child marriage. Citizens are encouraged to report any incidents to local authorities immediately, and can seek assistance from the national child helpline at 1098. According to the law, marriage of girls below 18 and boys below 21 is a punishable offense.
Minister Tinku Roy highlighted that the state government has implemented various programs to improve the socio-economic well-being of girls. Under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana, families marrying off a daughter above 18 will receive financial assistance of Rs 50,000. Similarly, the Mukhyamantri Balika Samriddhi Yojana provides a fixed deposit of Rs 50,000 for daughters born into economically disadvantaged families, which can be used for their education and other needs after they turn 18.
The government also supports education initiatives, distributing bicycles to girls in the 9th grade and awarding ₹5,000 to 100 students passing secondary and higher secondary levels. Additionally, the state provides monthly support of Rs 5,000 to over 70,000 persons with disabilities and maternal support through the Mukhyamantri Matripushti Uphar Yojana for pregnant women.
Highlighting the importance of unity in combating child marriage, the minister called on citizens to take legal action when necessary. During the event, Minister Roy congratulated minor Trupti Sarkar on her marriage.
Special guest Santana Chakma, Minister of Industries and Commerce, stressed that educating and empowering girls strengthens families, society, and the nation. She called on NGOs, clubs, and parents to actively participate in preventing child marriage and to use counseling where necessary.
