Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha emphasized the need for collective efforts from all sections of society to prevent the spread of AIDS in Tripura. He stated that public representatives must take an active role in awareness campaigns, ensuring that the message of AIDS prevention reaches every citizen. Speaking at the 18th General Meeting of the Tripura AIDS Control Society at the Secretariat, the Chief Minister stressed that awareness is the key to tackling this deadly disease.
Dr. Saha urged the Tripura AIDS Control Society to intensify awareness campaigns with the involvement of public representatives. He suggested that various social organizations in the state should actively participate in HIV/AIDS prevention programs. In his address, he advised the health department to conduct a three-month-long special campaign to detect and control the spread of the disease.
To strengthen medical support for HIV/AIDS patients, the Chief Minister virtually inaugurated three new Link ART Centers. These centers, located at Amarpur Sub-Divisional Hospital in Gomati District, Gandatwisa Sub-Divisional Hospital in Dhalai District, and Belonia Sub-Divisional Hospital in South Tripura District, will provide essential medicines and treatment facilities for affected individuals.
As part of the awareness drive, Dr. Saha flagged off a Mobile ICTC (Integrated Counseling and Testing Center) Van from the Secretariat. This van will travel across the state to conduct free HIV/AIDS screenings and provide counseling services. He further emphasized the role of media in spreading awareness, recommending advertisements in newspapers, press meetings, talk shows, cable TV ads, and leaflet distribution in schools and colleges.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of monitoring truck drivers entering the state, suggesting regular blood tests to detect infections early. Additionally, he proposed establishing a call center under the Tripura AIDS Control Society to ensure regular monitoring and support for AIDS patients.
At the meeting, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikas Debbarma recommended organizing blood test camps in hostels across various districts to promote early detection. Health Secretary Kiran Gitte outlined major programs under the Tripura AIDS Control Society, while Project Director Dr. Samarpita Dutta detailed the organization’s initiatives in HIV/AIDS detection and prevention.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including the chairpersons of all eight Zilla Parishads, Executive Member Kamal Koloi of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, representatives from the Tripura Women’s Commission, and officials from the Education, Social Welfare, and Social Education Departments.
With these renewed efforts, the Tripura government aims to significantly reduce HIV/AIDS cases and enhance public awareness across the state.
