Tripura CM Manik Saha announced a 132% rise in drug destruction and a 104% rise in seizures, reflecting the state’s zero-tolerance policy against narcotics. He urged parental vigilance, community awareness, and voluntary blood donation, emphasizing both social responsibility and Tripura’s progress in health, governance, and economic growth.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Saturday said that the state government has intensified its fight against the growing menace of drug trafficking and abuse, adopting a strict zero-tolerance approach. Speaking at the inauguration of a voluntary blood donation camp, Saha highlighted that the state has seen a dramatic increase in the seizure and destruction of drugs over the past year, signaling the administration’s commitment to curbing the threat.
The Chief Minister, who holds both the Home and Health and Family Welfare portfolios, stated that the police and various security agencies have been instructed to take stringent action against those involved in smuggling and consumption. “The police and other agencies have been instructed not to let anyone associated with drugs go free. A zero-tolerance policy has been adopted in the fight against drugs. Work is being done in that way,” Saha said.
Rise in Seizures and Destruction
Dr. Saha revealed that drug destruction in Tripura has increased by 132 percent compared to the same period last year, while drug seizures have risen by 104 percent. These figures, he said, reflect the intensified operations carried out by police and other security forces across the state. He also emphasized that the government is determined to catch the “drug kingpins” who control trafficking networks, aiming to dismantle the menace from its roots.
The Chief Minister noted with concern that drug abuse is no longer confined to boys but is also spreading among girls in the state, making the fight against narcotics even more urgent. He urged parents to remain vigilant about their children’s habits and to create greater awareness about the dangers of addiction.
National Vision, Local Commitment
Drawing inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Saha said that Tripura too is striving to move forward in development and governance. He observed that India has climbed from 11th place to 4th place globally in terms of economy, and Tripura is now in the second-highest position among northeastern states in terms of Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and per capita income.
However, the Chief Minister also underlined the challenges of reversing the effects of what he described as the “wrong atmosphere” created by decades of policies under the previous Communist and Congress governments. “It needs a lot of time. Still, we want to build a beautiful state,” he remarked.
Blood Donation: A Noble Service
Apart from addressing drug issues, Dr. Saha used the platform to stress the importance of voluntary blood donation. Calling blood donation the “greatest form of social service,” he said that unlike money, clothes, or food, blood cannot be bought from the market and is therefore one of the most valuable donations an individual can make.
“We can donate clothes, money, food, education, etc., but blood donation is a donation that cannot be bought from the market for money. Blood donation brings a divine feeling. Others can also be motivated through this social activity,” Saha said, adding that Tripura is ahead of many states in voluntary blood donation.
He highlighted the need to maintain a steady supply of rare negative blood groups, which are crucial during medical emergencies. “Out of 100 people, 15 have a negative blood group. Therefore, it is important to maintain an adequate stock of negative blood,” said the doctor-turned-politician.
Community Participation Crucial
The Chief Minister appealed to the people, local organizations, and clubs to come forward in larger numbers to donate blood and join hands in social campaigns. He stressed that community cooperation is essential not only in the fight against drugs but also in building a healthier society.
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As Tripura steps up its fight against drugs while simultaneously strengthening social initiatives like blood donation, the state government is sending a strong message of resilience, accountability, and progress. With visible improvements in enforcement and community participation, Tripura is aiming to carve a model path for other northeastern states in tackling social challenges and fostering collective development.
