AI and Internet Should Be Used for People’s Welfare: CM Manik Saha" "Chief Minister Launches Free Wi-Fi Facilities in 11 Government Colleges Under Digital Tripura Initiative"

Agartala, October 28: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Monday emphasized the importance of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet for the welfare of the people, calling technology a key driver of development and empowerment in modern society. Dr. Saha was speaking after inaugurating free Wi-Fi facilities in 11 government colleges under Phase II of the Digital Tripura Initiative and officially launching the Mukhyamantri Yuba Yogayog Yojana for the academic year 2024–25. The event was held at the Government College of Art and Craft, Lichu Bagan, Agartala, jointly organized by the Information Technology Department and the Higher Education Department. “Wi-Fi services have already been launched in 19 government colleges across the state. Today, 11 more colleges are being brought under this facility. This will greatly benefit students and strengthen the role of technology in education,” Dr. Saha said. Highlighting the role of youth in shaping India’s future, the Chief Minister said that around 60–65 percent of India’s population comprises youth aged between 18 and 35. “This is a matter of pride for us. The youth will play a pivotal role in realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047,” he said. Dr. Saha also noted Tripura’s growing achievements, including being declared the third fully literate state in India as per UNESCO guidelines, after Goa and Mizoram. Speaking on the Mukhyamantri Yuba Yogayog Yojana, he said, “Students in their final year of college are provided ₹5,000 to buy mobile phones. With the launch of Wi-Fi in colleges, they will no longer have to bear Internet costs. The government is also encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship through the state’s Start-up Policy.” The Chief Minister further mentioned that major investors, including Airtel, are setting up data centers in the state, boosting the digital infrastructure. “Technology is now essential in every field — from medical science to agriculture. AI and the Internet must be used to ensure progress and deliver better services to people. However, technology should always be used responsibly and for good causes,” he added. Dr. Saha also underscored the need to establish more mobile towers to improve network connectivity across the state. Finance and Information Technology Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, Higher Education Minister Kishore Barman, IT Department Secretary Kiran Gitte, and senior officials from both departments were present at the event.