Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha today formally launched a state-wide campaign on Intensified Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) at the Secretariat, aiming to raise public awareness about HIV and AIDS across Tripura. The campaign, organized by the Tripura State AIDS Control Society, is set to run for the next two months, focusing on educating citizens and encouraging precautionary measures to curb the spread of the virus.
In a review meeting held earlier at the Secretariat, Chief Minister Dr. Saha discussed AIDS-related issues with senior officials and emphasized the urgent need to identify sources of HIV infection within the state. He highlighted the importance of implementing massive public awareness initiatives, noting that AIDS infection can be significantly reduced through widespread citizen education. Dr. Saha stressed that students, from school to college level, should be made fully aware of the risks associated with HIV and AIDS. Additionally, he urged school teachers and related personnel to take an active role in preventing HIV infection, particularly by addressing the issue of drug addiction among the youth.
The Chief Minister announced that the state government has already approved the establishment of drug rehabilitation centers in all eight districts of Tripura. These centers were mentioned in the recent Raja Budget and will play a crucial role in combating drug-related issues that contribute to the spread of HIV. Dr. Saha also revealed plans for constructing a larger rehabilitation center with modern facilities in Bishranganj, aimed at providing comprehensive support to those battling addiction.
During the review meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for increased screening of AIDS patients and ensuring they receive proper treatment under regular medical supervision. He pointed out that Sikkim has the lowest number of AIDS patients among the North Eastern states and expressed a desire to bring down the rate of infection in Tripura to a similar level.
Chief Secretary JK Sinha, who was present at the meeting, highlighted the importance of responsible dissemination of information regarding AIDS. He cautioned that awareness campaigns must be carefully managed to avoid creating unnecessary confusion among the public. Sinha called for a robust and coordinated campaign at various levels, including regular reviews and meetings with voluntary organizations working alongside the AIDS Control Society.
State Health and Family Welfare Department Secretary Kiran Gitye provided a detailed report on the progress made in HIV/AIDS awareness efforts. He stated that from January to July this year, more than 100 students from various colleges and schools have been educated about HIV/AIDS. The Red Ribbon Club initiative has been extended to 31 colleges and higher education institutions across the state’s eight districts, with IEC materials distributed to schools and colleges free of cost. Gitye mentioned that 13 voluntary organizations are actively involved in promoting HIV/AIDS awareness in Tripura.
In terms of resources, the Tripura State AIDS Control Society currently operates 24 Stand-Alone Integrated Counseling and Testing Centers and 133 Facility-Integrated Counseling and Testing Centers across the state. Additionally, 23 Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) Centers are functional, with nine more expected to become operational soon. A mobile Integrated Counseling and Testing Center (ICTC) van is also serving the state, enhancing access to screening and testing services.
Secretary of the Chief Minister, PK Chakraborty, emphasized the need for collective efforts to boost social awareness about AIDS. He suggested involving women-led self-help groups in rural areas as a strategic approach to spreading awareness. The meeting also saw participation from other senior officials, including Director General of State Police Amitabh Ranjan, Finance Secretary Apoorba Roy, and Special Secretary of Education Department Ravel Hemendra Kumar, who discussed anti-drug programs and public awareness strategies. Their contributions will be crucial in the state’s efforts to achieve an AIDS and drug-free Tripura.
