Tripura CM Dr. Manik Saha urges increased HIV screening and school-level awareness while announcing Rs 2,000 monthly aid for HIV/AIDS patients. State reports 6,417 cases as Tripura expands prevention programs, Red Ribbon Clubs, and strict anti-drug measures.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Monday underscored the urgent need to intensify HIV/AIDS screening and expand awareness initiatives at the school level to effectively tackle the growing number of infections in the state.
Speaking at the State Level World AIDS Day observance held at the MBB playground in Agartala, the Chief Minister highlighted the state’s achievements, ongoing challenges, and future strategies in combatting HIV/AIDS.
The occasion also marked the virtual inauguration of Cancer Care Centers in the North, Gomati, and Dhalai districts, further strengthening Tripura’s healthcare infrastructure.
Addressing a large gathering of students, teachers, health officials, and representatives from various institutions, Dr. Saha said that global health calendars recognized World AIDS Day as one of the most significant awareness days. He added that the Tripura State AIDS Control Society has been consistently working to reduce new infections and support affected individuals.
“We all know that once HIV enters the body, it cannot be eradicated because there is no cure. However, with advanced medical treatment, the viral load can be successfully suppressed, allowing infected individuals to lead normal lives,” he said. The Chief Minister noted that Tripura has been identified as a high-performing state by the National AIDS Control Society and has received national recognition for its overall efforts.
Dr. Saha, who also holds the portfolio of Health Minister, pointed out that approximately four crore people worldwide are currently living with HIV. In India, the number stands at an estimated 25.44 lakh. Tripura recorded a total of 6,417 HIV/AIDS cases as of October 2025, including 1,222 women, 5,189 men, and six transgender persons.
The Chief Minister announced that the government has arranged a monthly allowance of Rs 2,000 for individuals living with HIV/AIDS, a measure aimed at providing financial relief and improving access to treatment.
He emphasized that the youth population remains the most vulnerable group. “According to available data, 83% of the total infected individuals in Tripura belong to the youth group, and out of these, 39% are girls,” he said. Dr. Saha attributed a significant portion of new infections to drug abuse, stressing that various security agencies are taking strict action to curb drug-related activities across the state.
He highlighted that combating drug abuse requires more than law enforcement. “Recently, a large quantity of drugs was destroyed, but arresting offenders alone is not enough. Young people who fall into addiction need proper counseling. The government is actively working in this direction,” he said.
Dr. Saha strongly advocated for the expansion of Red Ribbon Clubs from colleges to schools. “Earlier, Red Ribbon Clubs operated mostly at the college level. I urge the Tripura AIDS Control Society to establish these clubs in schools as well. Creating awareness among young students is crucial for prevention,” he said.
Addressing teachers and students, the Chief Minister called for active monitoring within educational institutions. He suggested that teachers observe irregular behavior in students, track prolonged absences, and maintain communication with parents when necessary. “More screening must be conducted to identify cases early. Increased screening will naturally lead to better detection, which is essential for timely treatment,” he said.
Dr. Saha recommended that teachers dedicate at least five minutes in the classroom to discuss HIV/AIDS awareness. He also appealed to social organizations, youth clubs, and community groups to intensify awareness campaigns across urban and rural areas.
The Chief Minister noted that global and national death rates from HIV/AIDS have significantly declined due to better medication, early diagnosis, and improved awareness. Tripura, too, has witnessed a reduction in fatalities, he said, attributing it to the coordinated efforts of the state government, health workers, and awareness groups.
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The program was also attended by several senior officials, including MBB University Vice Chancellor Dr. Bibhas Deb, Health Department Secretary Kiran Gitte, West District Magistrate Vishal Kumar, Superintendent of Police Namit Pathak, Higher Education Director Animesh Debbarma, Education Director N.C. Sharma, and Health Department Director Dr. Debashree Debbarma. Their presence underlined the multi-departmental approach required to effectively combat HIV/AIDS in the state.
