Tripura to Shift Colleges from Central to State University in Phased Manner says Education Minister Kishor Barman
Agartala, July 24:
In a major step aimed at reshaping the higher education landscape of Tripura, the state government has announced a phased transition of colleges from Tripura University—a central university—to Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) University, the state-run higher education institution.
The announcement was made by Tripura’s new Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman during his maiden visit to MBB University after assuming office. Addressing university officials, faculty members, and the press, Barman emphasized that the move is not just administrative but also symbolic of Tripura’s academic self-reliance and cultural revival.
Strengthening State Institutions with Cultural Roots
“The legacy of Maharaja Bir Bikram is deeply embedded in the academic and cultural history of Tripura. Strengthening MBB University is both a strategic and emotional step towards reclaiming our educational autonomy,” said Minister Barman. He added that the state government recently conducted a comprehensive review of the higher education sector, identifying key areas for reform and development.
The transition of colleges from the centrally administered Tripura University to MBB University will be carried out gradually. Currently, three colleges have already been affiliated with MBB University. The rest will follow based on the state university’s infrastructure and administrative capacity.
Aligned with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
The decision also aligns with the broader objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages decentralization, state-level empowerment, and the strengthening of local institutions. Barman stated that his ministry will be closely monitoring the implementation of NEP across all affiliated institutions in Tripura.
“College visits will be scheduled to personally assess academic infrastructure, speak directly with students and faculty, and evaluate readiness for NEP implementation,” he said. These visits are expected to help identify gaps and facilitate smoother integration with MBB University’s academic framework.
Investigation Underway into Ram Thakur College Fee Scam
During his university address, Minister Barman also addressed recent allegations of malpractice at Ram Thakur College in Agartala. Students had alleged the circulation of fake fee cards, raising concerns about administrative integrity. The minister confirmed that a formal investigation is currently underway.
“We take these allegations very seriously. If any person—internal or external—is found guilty, strict action will be taken as per the law. Transparency and trust are fundamental pillars of education,” Barman asserted.
A Step Towards Decentralized and Inclusive Education
Experts and academics view this move as a significant part of a long-term strategy to build capacity within the state’s own institutions. By empowering MBB University to take a lead role, Tripura aims to decentralize its education framework, reduce dependency on centrally governed institutions, and foster regional academic excellence.
The minister’s visit also included an inspection of the university’s facilities and a closed-door meeting with senior faculty and administrative staff. Sources indicate that a detailed roadmap is being prepared for the next batch of colleges to be affiliated with MBB University.
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