By Firstdespatch Desk Feb 28, 2025
Agartala, Feb 28 (FD) Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha emphasized that people from all sections of society must come forward to prevent AIDS. He stated that public representatives play a crucial role in this initiative. The Tripura AIDS Control Society should launch an awareness campaign involving public representatives to prevent the spread of AIDS. The Chief Minister made these remarks today during the 18th General Meeting of the Tripura AIDS Control Society at the Secretariat.
In his speech, the Chief Minister stated that AIDS is a deadly disease, and all citizens must be aware of its prevention. Various social organizations in the state should be involved in AIDS prevention efforts. He advised the health department to undertake a three-month special campaign for HIV/AIDS detection.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister virtually inaugurated three Link ART 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. These centers will provide essential medicines to HIV/AIDS patients.
After the meeting, Chief Minister Professor (Dr.) Manik Saha flagged off a Mobile ICTC (Integrated Counseling and Testing Center) Van from the Secretariat. As part of the AIDS prevention awareness campaign, he stressed the importance of advertisements in newspapers, talk shows, press meetings, advertisements on cable channels, and the distribution of leaflets in schools and colleges.
Additionally, the Chief Minister advised monitoring truck drivers coming from other states and conducting blood tests to ensure early detection. He also emphasized the establishment of a call center under the Tripura AIDS Control Society to ensure regular monitoring of AIDS patients.
At the meeting, Minister for Tribal Welfare, Bikas Debbarma, suggested organizing blood test camps in hostels across various districts. Health Secretary Kiran Gitte discussed significant programs of the Tripura AIDS Control Society, while Project Director Dr. Samarpita Dutta highlighted the society’s initiatives in HIV/AIDS detection and prevention.
The meeting was attended by 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. FD SB JK