Tripura Launches School Boat Service To Ferry Students For Free
The School Education Department of Tripura recently launched a remarkable initiative called the "School Boat" service, aimed at assisting underprivileged students residing on the islands of Dumbur Lake in the Gumati district. These students often face challenges in reaching school due to their inability to afford boat ride fares. Especially during monsoons, their access to education becomes nearly impossible due to water bodies. In recognition of their hardships, the school education department took action by inaugurating a "school boat" that provides free transportation for students from their residences to school.
Dumbur Lake, encompassing 48 islands and located 120 km away from the state capital, relies on fishing as the primary source of income for its inhabitants. The Dakmura Gumati Senior Basic School, which has a total of 100 students, experiences low attendance due to communication barriers. Around 50 students come from various islands within Dumbur Lake and often struggle to attend school due to the financial burden associated with boat transportation, which serves as their only means of communication.
Chandni Chandran, the State Project Director (SPD) of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, shared her thoughts with PTI, stating, "The idea for the school boat was conceptualized by the Block Project Coordinator (BPC) to assist impoverished tribal students. We provided support by allocating Rs 1.20 lakh under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, which focuses on outcome-based education." Chandran, who officially launched the inaugural school boat alongside students and their guardians, acknowledged the small monetary contribution and emphasized its significant impact on education. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to implement such an innovative initiative that benefits underprivileged students in need of education.
In response to this remarkable endeavor, Chief Minister Manik Saha of Tripura praised the introduction of the school boat for tribal students attending school in the Karbook subdivision of the Gumati district. In a Facebook post, Saha applauded the dedication of Damodhar Tripura, the indomitable Block Project Coordinator (BPC) of Karbook RD Block, for transforming this outstanding idea into reality. He highlighted that the first-ever "school boat" is dedicated to serving students residing on the enchanting islands of the breathtaking Dumbur Lake. Saha expressed his appreciation for the initiative and stated that it ensures no student is left behind in their pursuit of education. He reiterated the commitment to providing equal opportunities for every child, emphasizing the unwavering dedication to this cause.