East Twipra, Near Twima Inc, Jirania (2025)

05/11/2025

A new indie music festival is emerging in Khumulwng, the Khumulwng Music and Arts Festival — much like how Arunachal’s Ziro Festival began with independent artists. Ziro’s organic growth has made it one of Northeast India’s biggest music festivals, now supported by the government for its role in boosting tourism.
Similarly, KMAF has the potential to shape Tripura’s cultural identity if nurtured by local artists and supported by the community. Unlike government-run festivals that depend on political continuity, independent artist-led festivals can sustain themselves through creative collaboration, with the government playing a supportive, not controlling role.
For KMAF to thrive and become a source of pride and organic tourism for Tripura, public support in its early stages is essential.

04/11/2025

For decades, the political landscape of Northeast India has been fragmented, divided across ethnic lines, regional identities, and state-based interests. While the region has often shared common struggles, its political voice at the national level has remained scattered. But now, a significant shift is unfolding.

On November 4, 2025, four prominent leaders from the Northeast, Chief Minister of Meghalaya Conrad K. Sangma, Bubagra Pradyot Bikram Manikya, Founder of TIPRA M***a, Mmhonlumo Kikon, Former Spokesperson of BJP, and Daniel Langthasa, Founder of People's Party, came together in New Delhi to announce a historic collaboration titled “One North East.”

According to their joint statement, the leaders have decided to form a united political platform that represents the “aspirations of the people.” The idea is simple yet revolutionary, to bring together various regional voices into a single, collective political entity that can advocate for the interests of the Northeast as a whole.

This initiative, inspired by the legacy of past leaders who fought for the identity and development of the region like Hill State Movement, aims to create a common political platform, much like how the North East Students’ Organisation (NESO) unites students’ bodies across the eight states.

Until now, politics in the Northeast has largely been shaped along ethnic lines or state boundaries, with major national parties taking smaller regional outfits under their umbrella. These regional parties were usually aligned either with the UPA or the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), an extension of the BJP-led NDA, but never united at a pan-Northeast level. Most of them operated within the larger national framework, giving national parties considerable influence over state politics.

However, “One North East” could represent a homegrown, indigenous alternative, one that seeks to reclaim political autonomy and collective representation without the shadow of national parties.

If this alliance gains momentum, firstly, it could challenge NEDA’s dominance, secondly, create a common Northeastern agenda on issues like identity and development, thirdly, empower indigenous leadership by giving local voices control over policies, and lastly, foster political stability through greater collaboration across states and communities.

The leaders have announced the formation of a committee to deliberate on the structure and future course of this new political entity. While it’s too early to predict its full impact, the move has already stirred conversations about a regional resurgence, a Northeast that stands together, politically and ideologically.

04/11/2025

The City of Flowers is blooming with music once again! Tripura now has its very own Khumulwng Music & Art Festival - back with its second edition this November 8, 9 & 10!

Experience 3 days of music, art, food, and culture, featuring 21 incredible artists — from .yahn , , , , , , , Sadagar, Ratan Thwng Jamatia to

To get your passes visit link in the bio.

Use the code given in the video for an exclusive 20% OFF!

Let’s support Tripura’s biggest independent music movement and make Khumulwng the next Ziro, Hornbill, or Cherry Blossom of the Northeast!

26/10/2025

There was a time when the Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF) stood as a symbol of unity among all Tiprasa communities: Reangs, Jamatias, Halams, Noatias, Uchois, Tripuris, and even the Darlongs. The organization once represented the collective voice of the indigenous student community across Tripura and beyond. But today, that inclusive identity seems to be fading. Reangs, Halams, Darlongs, and Uchois are now notably absent from its Central Body, signaling a concerning decline in diversity and representation.

TSF’s strength once lay in its ability to bring together students from different tribes under a single banner. Its widespread network extended beyond Tripura, with active units in major Indian cities such as Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Dehradun, Delhi, and Kolkata. These outstation units not only provided support systems for Tiprasa students but also helped maintain a strong national presence. Over the years, however, most of these branches have quietly disappeared. Today, only the Pune, Shillong, and Guwahati units remain active. In cities like Delhi and Dehradun, newer Tiprasa student organizations have taken TSF’s place, a telling sign of its diminishing relevance outside the state.

Another worrying aspect of this decline is the absence of intellectual and professional voices within TSF. The organization once boasted a generation of scholars, lawyers, doctors, and professors who shaped its discussions and strategies. Now, with very few professionals or academics participating in its activities, TSF appears to have lost a vital layer of intellectual depth. Without such perspectives, its debates and policies often lack the analytical strength needed to address the complex challenges facing indigenous students today.

Internal dynamics have also changed. Political ambitions, once channelled towards collective goals, have now turned individualistic. Many members view the organization as a stepping stone for personal political careers rather than a platform for collective empowerment. This shift in mindset has weakened the very backbone of the organization, its unity and sense of shared purpose.

Internal politics, too, has taken its toll. While healthy debates are a natural part of any democratic body, factionalism and toxic rivalries have seeped into TSF’s structure. Instead of strengthening the organization through constructive discussions, these divisions have often led to stagnation and disillusionment among members.

Externally, TSF now faces stiff competition from other indigenous-based student organizations that have emerged both within and outside Tripura. Groups like ATISA (the student wing of IPFT), TISF (affiliated with TIPRA M***a), and several smaller tribe-based organizations, the most prominent being TSB and BSM representing the Tripura and Reang tribes respectively, have significantly eroded TSF’s influence. The organization that once served as the united voice of all Tiprasa students is now one among many.

In today’s digital age, TSF’s inability to adapt to modern technology and digital campaigning has further deepened its struggles. Most large and long-established student bodies across India have embraced digital platforms to engage the youth, share updates, and build communities online. TSF, however, continues to rely heavily on outdated methods of communication and campaigning, which have proven less effective with newer generations.

Ironically, TSF was once a pioneer in using social media to connect with students. It was among the first indigenous organizations in Tripura to realize the potential of online outreach. Yet, that early adopter spirit has faded. The organization that once led the way in digital engagement now lags far behind, unable to capture the attention or enthusiasm of young Tiprasa students in the digital era.

The story of TSF today is not one of disappearance, but of dormancy, a once-vibrant movement that now struggles to find its pulse. Its legacy remains significant, but for it to regain relevance, TSF must rediscover its inclusivity, intellectual vigor, and digital presence, the very traits that once made it the heart of Tiprasa student politics.

25/10/2025

On 25 October, the Sadar North Baptist Women’s Society (SNBWS) inaugurated the Kaya Haduk Hospital at Kaya Haduk, Patni, Mandwi. It is the first hospital in Tripura — if not in the entire Northeast — to be built through the initiative of a women’s society.

Established in 1989, the Sadar North Baptist Women’s Society has been deeply involved in social welfare activities since its inception. The society is often credited with reviving the intricate embroidery of the traditional Tripuri Rignai, which had declined during the 1970s and 1980s in Tripura. Through their efforts to reintroduce this tradition and empower women by promoting the sale of beautifully woven Rignai, they successfully brought Tripuri weaving back into the mainstream.

Kaya Haduk Hospital is located in the remote village of Kaya Haduk, near Patni Market under the Mandwi R.D. Block. The foundation stone was laid in 2014, but the resolution to build a hospital at Kaya Haduk had been passed earlier, in 2012, during the 23rd Annual General Meeting of SNBWS.

The foundation stone was laid to commemorate the Silver Jubilee, to mark 25 years since the formation of SNBWS. However, construction work did not begin until 2022. This was made possible in part due to the contribution of veteran revolutionary D. Yamrok aka Sabir Kumar Debbarma, President of NLFT(SD), who provided funds from his Special Economic Development Package allotted during the tenure of the then Tribal Welfare Minister, Mr. Mever Kumar Jamatia.

The land for the hospital was purchased by SNBWS in 2012 using funds collected over the years through donations and Rignai auctions. The local village committee of Kaya Haduk sold the land to SNBWS, but since it was Khas land, special permission was required from the TTAADC, under whose jurisdiction the Sixth Schedule lands fall. The then Education Executive Member and later Chief Executive Member of TTAADC, Mr. Radha Charan Debbarma, played a crucial role in helping SNBWS obtain the necessary permissions.

Kaya Haduk Hospital currently operates as a 10-bedded facility providing only primary healthcare services. However, SNBWS envisions transforming it into a multi-purpose hospital in the near future by adding more beds and expanding the range of medical facilities. Inspired by the model of Christian Medical College, Vellore, SNBWS aims to make Kaya Haduk Hospital not only a place for physical healing but also for spiritual care through prayer and counseling centers. In the long run, the society even envisions establishing a Christian Medical College at Kaya Haduk, following Vellore’s example.

The Kaya Haduk Hospital stands as a testimony to SNBWS’s unwavering dedication to community welfare and its resilience in overcoming all odds.
By Abel Debbarma, Editor

23/10/2025

The 24-hour bandh called by the Tiprasa Civil Society turned violent in Kamalpur subdivision’s Shantirbazar area on Thursday evening, prompting the Dhalai District Administration to impose Section 163 of BNSS, to maintain law and order, prohibiting the assembly of more than four persons, the use of weapons, provocative speeches, and vehicle movement in restricted areas within Kamalpur Subdivision until further notice.

Reacting to the incident, Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha strongly condemned the attack, stating on social media: “We strongly condemn the violent attack by Tipra M***a supporters on Shri Abhijit Majumdar (BDO, Salema), Engineer Shri Animesh Saha, and residents of Shantirbazar, Dhalai District. Such acts of violence are unacceptable. The administration has been directed to take swift and strict action against those responsible.”

Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Samudra Debbarma and Salema BDO Abhijit Majumder* (correction in the image), both who arrived at the spot to assess the situation also sustained head injuries. There were also reports of arrows and other sharp objects being used during the clash.

23/10/2025

Rail services in Tripura came to a halt today as protestors blocked the tracks at Hathai Kotor, stopping the train that was heading from Agartala to Manu at Brigudasbari*.

The 24-hour statewide bandh, called by Tiprasa Civil Society, is being observed across several parts of the state. The bandh has been organized to press key demands, including: Strict action against illegal infiltration, Implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Tripura, and Full enforcement of the Tiprasa Accord.

Shops, markets, and transport services in many areas remained closed, and heavy security deployment has been reported in sensitive zones to maintain peace.

At the forefront of this bandh is Mr. Ranjit Debbarma, MLA of Ramchandraghat Constituency and former Supremo of the ATTF. Overall, this bandh reflects the growing public sentiment over demographic and cultural concerns among the indigenous Tiprasa community, who have long demanded stronger safeguards to protect their identity and land rights.

04/10/2025

In Tripura’s political landscape, the recurring theme of neglect toward the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) has now reached a boiling point. With 37 out of 38 Bills passed by the Council still awaiting the Governor’s assent, and Village Committee elections delayed for over five years, the question that arises is not merely administrative, it is constitutional and moral.

When Bubagra Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma, founder of the Tipra M***a Party (TMP) and a key alliance partner of the ruling BJP-led government, announces his decision to move the Supreme Court over these delays, it reflects a much deeper crisis within Tripura’s governance system and a growing distrust between the state government and TTAADC.

The TTAADC was created under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution to safeguard the land, culture, and governance of the indigenous people. Yet, decades after its formation, the Council continues to operate under limitations imposed not by law but by political indifference.

These pending Bills, as highlighted by Bubagra Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, are not symbolic, they deal with essential matters such as land rights, forest management, customary laws, taxation, and local policing. Each delay represents a denial of rights to the indigenous communities who depend on these frameworks for their everyday governance. The absence of land rights, in particular, remains a glaring injustice in Tripura, the only Sixth Schedule state where tribal people still do not enjoy full ownership of their ancestral lands.

Recently, the Supreme Court had to intervene and direct the Tripura Election Commission to conduct the long-overdue Village Committee elections, following a plea by Bubagra Pradyot. That the highest court of the land needed to remind the state of its basic democratic duties speaks volumes about the erosion of accountability within Tripura’s administrative structure.

The state government’s inertia on TTAADC matters sends a message that autonomy for tribal regions exists more on paper than in practice.

The Sixth Schedule was never meant to be ornamental, it was a constitutional promise to protect the identity, culture, and dignity of India’s indigenous peoples. By sitting on Bills duly passed by an elected Council, the state government undermines both the spirit of the Constitution and the democratic aspirations of the Tiprasa people.

It is unfortunate that such constitutional matters must repeatedly be settled in court rather than through dialogue and good governance. If the Supreme Court’s recent order on Village Committee elections serves as a reminder of the government’s obligations, then the upcoming legal move on the pending Bills should serve as a wake-up call.

The delay in granting assent to TTAADC Bills is not just bureaucratic negligence, it is a constitutional failure. For democracy to retain its meaning in Tripura’s hills, the voices of the indigenous people must be heard and respected within the framework that was built to protect them.

The state government must act, not out of political convenience, but out of constitutional duty. The longer it delays, the deeper the wound it inflicts on the foundation of Tripura’s plural democracy and its delicate demographic balance.

01/10/2025

Tripura rarely finds itself in the sporting spotlight, but whenever it does, the state has produced names that command attention. From gymnast Dipa Karmakar’s historic leap onto the Olympic stage to a few scattered stories of raw, untapped potential, the region has long been waiting for its next wave of stars. In combat sports, particularly MMA, that breakthrough moment may finally be arriving. Earlier this month, Sudip Jamatia put Tripura on the map by clinching victory at the Atortu MMA Championship against Mustakim Sheik. Now, another promising face is preparing to step into the cage.

At just 21, Gandilal Debbarma (2-0-0) has already carved out a reputation as one of Tripura’s brightest MMA prospects. Hailing from Melaghar in Sepahijala district, Gandilal is determined to pursue the sport seriously, as he traveled all the way to Hrangkhawl Para in Khowai district to train under Kru Raymond Bongcher, the pioneer credited with introducing MMA to Tripura.

Coming from a humble background, with parents who work as daily laborers, Gandilal’s rise is fueled not by privilege but sheer perseverance. He currently trains at The Forge MMA Gym in Rangamura, a facility running on limited resources but overflowing with ambition.

On October 5, Gandilal will face his sternest test yet in his first exhibition bout against Debojit, a fighter representing Dojang Gym in Assam - one of the premier MMA training centers in the Northeast. A win could earn him eligibility to step into professional ranks in his next outing.

For The Forge MMA Gym, where coaches and fighters alike battle daily against infrastructure challenges, Gandilal’s upcoming fight represents not just an individual milestone but a collective dream of proving Tripura’s fighting spirit on bigger stages.

So far, the young featherweight has tasted success in both his amateur appearances. He first squared off against Subhodeep Mishra of Fighters Lab, Agartala, at the Tripura State MMA Championship, followed by a second victory over Arnab Mazumder from Rhino Fitness Gym during Club Battle-8 in Sivasagar, Assam. His third challenge awaits at the Dojang Fight League in Bongaigaon, Assam - an event that promises tougher competition and wider visibility.

Gandilal, however, won’t be carrying the Tripura flag alone. A contingent of fighters from the state will also be stepping up for kickboxing bouts between October 3-5, 2025. The lineup includes Joleyas Kalai, Hebrai Hrangkhawl, N. Johncina Singha, Danosh Kalai, and Daniel Kalai, each eager to showcase their skill and determination. With every punch, kick, and takedown, this new generation of athletes is quietly building a case for Tripura as an emerging force in combat sports.

By Sauramita Debbarma, A US Sports Journalist

28/09/2025

After nearly five years in the making, Khumulwng has finally opened the doors to its first-ever dedicated cinema hall, a 167-seater theatre inside the Salka Hati Multi Complex Building. The theatre will be run by SSR Cinema Private Limited, marking their fifth cinema hall in Tripura after Rupasi, Balaka, Khowai and Dharmanagar and promises to be more than just a space for movie screenings. For Khumulwng, it’s a long-overdue dream finally realized.

For decades, residents of Khumulwng have longed for a theatre of their own. While the rest of the state had a handful of dedicated cinema halls, people here often had to travel to Agartala or depend on makeshift community hall screenings, usually limited to just a few Kokborok films.

But the impact of this new hall extends far beyond entertainment. For Tripura’s independent filmmakers, especially those working in Kokborok, it could be a turning point. Until now, most local films had short-lived screenings in community halls, often lasting only two or three days. Without a permanent venue, filmmakers struggled to recover costs, let alone profit. The Khumulwng cinema hall changes that equation.

A dedicated theatre means local films can now run for weeks, building audiences and generating steady revenue. For Kokborok cinema, in particular, this could revive an industry that has long struggled with visibility and sustainability. Having a cinema hall in Khumulwng will give local filmmakers a hope that their stories will finally have the stage they deserve.

The hall also opens the door for Khumulwng residents to engage with cinema in all its forms. From homegrown indie films to national releases and even international titles, audiences will now have access to a wider variety of films without leaving their town. It’s a space where the local meets the global, where a Kokborok story can share the same screen as a Bollywood hit or a Hollywood blockbuster.

In many ways, the theatre represents a cultural bridge. It’s a platform for local voices, a source of community pride, and a new gathering place for young and old alike. For Khumulwng, this is more than just a cinema hall, it’s the start of a new chapter in the Tipra Film industry or Toké.

09/09/2025

The MHA has just extended the cut-off date by 10 years for granting citizenship to religious minority communities from neighboring Muslim-majority nations.

This changes EVERYTHING.

Minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan who entered till 31 Dec 2024 can now claim Indian citizenship.

Tripura, indigenous voices fear being pushed further into the minority.

Humanitarian move or political gamble?
Download Kokborok Edu App on Google Play Store.
Follow the link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=in.kokborokkokrwbai.app
Kokborok Edu is a Kokborok Educational App for Kokborok students and Job aspirants.

04/09/2025

This Insect Inspired a Tripuri Dance.

Meet the Lebang —the tiny cicada that gave birth to the famous Lebang Bumani Dance. What started as a playful tradition has now become a proud cultural showcase of the Tiprasa people across the world.

Next time you hear that sound in the hills of Tripura, remember… you’re listening to the insect that created a dance.

Presented by Emi Jamatia
Video Edited by Nakiksa.

This is a part of a series where we talk about Culture and People of Tripura and Northeast.

Do Follow East Twipra for more videos on Cultural Commentary.

East Twipra

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