Former Union Minister of State and former Lok Sabha MP Pratima Bhoumik has urged Union Minister for DoNER and Communications Jyotiraditya M. Scindia to improve mobile connectivity in remote, tribal and border areas of Tripura. In a letter dated October 1, Bhoumik highlighted connectivity concerns in several parts of Sepahijala district, particularly under Mohanbhog Block.
She said reliable mobile services can help families access emergency and medical assistance. Meanwhile, she noted that 57 of 65 habitations identified for coverage under PM-JANMAN had received connectivity by June 30, 2026. Bhoumik has now sought early action for the remaining eight habitations.
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Key Facts
- Issue: Mobile connectivity in remote and tribal habitations
- District: Sepahijala, Tripura
- Block: Mohanbhog
- Letter date: October 1, 2026
- PM-JANMAN coverage: 57 of 65 identified habitations
- Pending coverage: 8 habitations
- Key persons: Pratima Bhoumik and Jyotiraditya M. Scindia
- Areas highlighted: Chandul VC, Jagatram Para VC, Ulukhala, Kalikhola VC, Nidaya GP and Bhabanipur GP
Bhoumik Seeks Connectivity for Remaining Habitations
Bhoumik welcomed the progress under PM-JANMAN, noting that 57 of the 65 identified habitations had received mobile coverage as of June 30, 2026.
However, she pointed out that eight habitations still await connectivity. Therefore, she urged the authorities to take steps for their early coverage.
She also highlighted the importance of mobile services for families living in distant settlements. According to her, reliable connectivity can support access to emergency assistance, medical services and other essential facilities.
Fresh Assessment Sought in Sepahijala
Bhoumik also requested a fresh habitation-wise and para-wise assessment of mobile connectivity in parts of Mohanbhog Block.
The areas she mentioned include Chandul VC, Jagatram Para VC, Ulukhala under Taibandal VC, Kalikhola VC, Nidaya GP and Bhabanipur GP.
According to Bhoumik, official coverage records may not always reflect the actual network experience of smaller settlements.
Network Gaps in Covered Villages
Bhoumik said some villages officially listed as covered may still have weak, intermittent or unavailable mobile services in smaller settlements.
Consequently, she called for authorities to identify these gaps and assess the need for additional mobile towers and network upgrades.
She suggested using PM-JANMAN and other eligible government programmes to address connectivity gaps where required.
District-Wise Action Plan Proposed
The former MP also called for a district-wise action plan with clear completion timelines.
Such a plan, she said, would provide residents with clearer information about efforts to address their connectivity concerns.
Furthermore, improved mobile connectivity could support access to education, healthcare, government services and other opportunities in remote communities.
Questions and Answers
What did Pratima Bhoumik request?
She urged the Centre to improve mobile connectivity in remote, tribal and border habitations of Tripura.
How many PM-JANMAN habitations have received coverage?
According to Bhoumik, 57 of the 65 identified habitations had received mobile coverage by June 30, 2026.
How many habitations remain without coverage?
Eight identified habitations still await connectivity.
Which Tripura district received particular attention?
Bhoumik highlighted connectivity concerns in Sepahijala district, especially Mohanbhog Block.
What else did she propose?
She sought a fresh habitation-wise assessment and a district-wise action plan with clear completion timelines.
Location Context
Sepahijala district is part of Tripura’s rural and border-region landscape. Better mobile connectivity in such areas can support communication, emergency services and access to digital and government services.
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